By Simon Nare
The South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) in the Western Cape has accepted the provincial government’s decision to close selected taxi routes in Cape Town following ongoing violence between rival associations.
The council said it remained hopeful that through continued dialogue with government and other stakeholders, peace and stability would soon be restored.
The provincial government invoked Section 91 of the National Land Transport Act on Wednesday after clashes since August 23 claimed six lives, including an off-duty police officer and a taxi operator.
The affected routes — Mfuleni–Somerset West, Lwandile–Khayelitsha via Somerset West, and Khayelitsha–Somerset West — will remain closed for 30 days. Specific lanes at taxi ranks in Khayelitsha, Makhaza, Mfuleni, Somerset West, Nomzamo and Lwandile will also be shut for the same period.
Police and provincial traffic officers will monitor the affected areas to enforce the closure.
SANTACO said it was saddened by the shutdown, acknowledging the severe impact on commuters who rely on taxis daily. However, it noted the decision was taken to protect lives amid escalating instability in the sector.
“We sincerely apologise to commuters who will be inconvenienced by these closures. As an industry that provides the backbone of daily mobility for thousands of people, we are deeply aware of the disruption this brings,” the council said.
SANTACO committed to working “tirelessly and in good faith” to secure lasting peace and urged the public to give the industry space to resolve the conflict.
“Our firm belief is that through collective effort, dialogue and understanding, the Western Cape will overcome this period and restore both stability in the industry and trust among our commuters,” it added.
By Wednesday afternoon, no new incidents had been reported.
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