Cape Town Authorities Seize Taxis to Ensure Road Safety and Compliance with NLTA under Santaco Agreement

1 min read
road safety compliance

Over the weekend, Cape Town authorities impounded taxis as part of a joint effort with the South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) to address serious road safety offenses and ensure compliance with the National Land Transport Act (NLTA).

Impoundment Details

According to safety and security member JP Smith, eight taxis were impounded on Friday, and another six on Saturday. One taxi was found guilty of significant overloading, but was released as it had not yet been processed. The remaining taxis were impounded for serious offenses, including driving without an operating license, operating on incorrect routes, driving without a driver’s license or Professional Driving Permit (PDP), and being unfit for roadworthiness.

Disagreement Over Agreement

Despite the joint effort, there appears to be disagreement between the City of Cape Town and Santaco regarding the exact terms of their agreement. Smith corrected what he considered inaccurate statements related to the agreement on social media.

Next Steps

The next steps involve finalizing a standard operating procedure (SOP) for exercising the discretionary power provided under the NLTA. A taxi task team is expected to complete this process within 14 days. The team will also define a list of additional major offenses resulting in impoundments, as well as less severe offenses for which fines will be issued.

Importance of Compliance

Smith emphasized that while the SOP is under development, road users must not disregard existing rules. He expressed concern over Santaco leadership potentially misrepresenting the terms of the agreement to taxi owners or drivers, which could lead to confrontations when officers implement the agreed-upon measures.

Collaboration for Road Safety

The collaboration between the City of Cape Town and Santaco marks a critical step forward in addressing road safety concerns and ensuring that taxi services adhere to the necessary regulations. Both parties must work together to maintain clear communication, avoid misunderstandings, and promote a safer environment for all road users.

Local Attractions

Meanwhile, Cape Town residents can enjoy various deals on cars under R100,000 and explore the natural beauty of the Garden Route with a guided adventure canyon tour for R1,050. These offers present an opportunity for locals to experience the city’s stunning attractions while ensuring safe and responsible driving practices.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

Previous Story

In Memoriam: Honoring the Memory of Ryder Kossatz

Next Story

Title

Latest from Blog

Spreading Holiday Cheer: Firefighters Bring Joy to Children

In December 2024, firefighters brightened the holidays for children in care facilities by delivering wrapped gifts with big smiles. Partnering with Pick n Pay, they spread joy and gratitude after receiving support during a tough summer of wildfires. Each visit was a heartwarming reminder of kindness, as firefighters became symbols of generosity, teaching kids about empathy and community spirit. This joyful initiative shows how simple acts of giving can light up lives and strengthen bonds in the community.

A Persistent Nightmare in Embalenhle: Justice Served

In Embalenhle, South Africa, a dark nightmare unfolded as Themba Prince Shongwe committed terrible crimes, including rapes and murders, from 2016 to 2018. The community lived in fear as he targeted innocent girls, causing heartbreak and loss. Finally, justice was served when he was found guilty and sentenced to nine life terms in prison, bringing relief to the grieving families and a sense of safety back to the community. This victory shines a light on the importance of standing against violence and working together to protect the vulnerable.

Illuminating Cape Town: Lighting Up Safety and Community

Cape Town’s streetlight program shines brightly as it manages over 245,000 lights, making the city safer and more inviting, especially during the festive season. The community plays a vital role by reporting issues and staying alert, working together to protect these lights from theft and vandalism. With a focus on sustainability, the city is switching to energyefficient LEDs, reducing its environmental impact while keeping streets welllit. This initiative not only lights up the city but also brings people together, creating a warm and safe atmosphere that showcases Cape Town’s beauty at night.

A Beacon of Hope: Gugulethu’s New Housing Project

The Gugulethu Infill Housing Project is bringing joy and hope to the community of Gugulethu, South Africa, by building 52 new homes for deserving families. This celebration marks a fresh start for many, especially the elderly and middleaged residents who finally have a safe place to call home. As they move in, they not only gain shelter but also a sense of belonging and stability. This project symbolizes the community’s strength and resilience, showing that together, they can overcome challenges and build a brighter future. The new homes are more than just buildings; they represent dreams coming true and a promise of better days ahead.

Championing Justice: The Journey of Colonel Celeste van der Klashorst

Colonel Celeste van der Klashorst is a fearless leader in South Africa’s fight against violence and crime, especially those targeting women and children. With over thirty years of service, she created Child Protection Units and now leads the National SECI Unit, tackling serious issues like serial rape and child pornography. Her team’s recent success in a major operation has led to arrests and rescued children, showing the powerful impact of her work. Colonel van der Klashorst inspires others with her passion for justice, making her a shining example of hope and resilience in the battle for a safer society.