Concerns over closure of taxi routes

THE Western Cape Government has announced the closure of minibus taxi routes following deadly clashes between rivals, Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (Cata) and the Cape Organisation for the Democratic Taxi Association (Codeta).

- MANDILAKHE TSHWETE

The ranks in Khayelitsha, Mfuleni, Lwandle, Nomzamo, and Somerset West are the affected routes.

Mobility MEC Isaac Sileku said the decision, taken at a provincial Cabinet meeting on Friday, was “exceptionally difficult, “but to protect lives after repeated negotiations failed to resolve the impasse.

“Following careful consideration and a decision taken at Cabinet, the Western Cape Government has resolved to invoke Section 91 of the National Land Transport Act,” he said.

From Wednesday, the following routes will be closed for 30 days:

◆ Route M18: Mfuleni - Somerset West

◆ Route 43: Lwandle - Khayelitsha via Somerset West