Byline Madonsela Nyeleti
KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma has called for unity and stability in the taxi industry following his visit to taxi ranks in Durban on Wednesday.
The visit which took place at Durban Station and the YMCA, formed part of the provincial government’s efforts to ensure safe and conflict-free travel during the busy Easter and Passover holiday period.
During the engagement, Duma interacted with taxi drivers, passengers, and members of the Durban Station Long Distance Association, emphasising the importance of maintaining peace and safety in one of the province’s most relied-upon transport sectors.
“We are here to promote peace and stability, especially as we approach a period where many people will be travelling for Easter,” Duma said.
Issues of conflict and violence in the industry have historically intensified during high-demand seasons like Easter which was raised during the Nkabinde Commission of Enquiry.
According to Departmental Spokesperson Ndabezinhle Sibiya, there is zero tolerance in KwaZulu-Natal that why they are making sure that the taxis in KwaZulu-Natal are in good condition before the Easter holiday.
“We are in the final stage of our preparations for the Easter holiday and Passover weekend, we have discovered that the taxis in the station are in good condition, but we have some concerns with some taxis not having trailers for luggage but beside that everything looks to be in good condition.”
Duma also highlighted on the recent petrol increase saying that he is are working closely with the department of long distance to ensure stability.
“Usually when petrol prices increase taxi fare also increases, but we are working closely with Department of long distance to make sure that prices stay consent.”
The Department says similar visits and engagements will continue across the province as part of ongoing efforts to promote safety and stability in the public transport sector.
