WC reopens taxi routes as negotiations continue

THE Western Cape Mobility Department has reopened taxi routes after a month-long shutdown due to violent clashes between rival associations.

- MANDILAKHE TSHWETE

The routes were closed on September 17 following six fatalities linked to disputes between the Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (Cata) and the Cape Organisation for the Democratic Taxi Association (Codeta).

While restrictions were lifted at midnight on Friday, not all taxis have resumed operations as negotiations continue with the provincial government.

Cata spokesperson Nkululeko Sityebi said discussions were still ongoing. “I can't comment now because we are still in negotiations with the MEC”

Codeta spokesperson Makho-sandile Tumana confirmed that some taxis had started operating again.

“We were informed that we should operate according to our permits. We will hear all the details when we meet with the MEC’ he said.