Categories: News

Cape Town Taxi Industry: A Collaborative Approach to Progress

The Western Cape High Court has resolved a dispute between the City of Cape Town, the Western Cape Government, and the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) surrounding the impounding of minibus taxis. The court’s decision has clarified the grounds for impounding taxis, which had been a contentious issue.

Impounding Taxis

SANTACO’s Deputy Chair, Nceba Enga, expressed his satisfaction with the decision, stating that it vindicated the taxi association’s view on the limited grounds for impounding taxis. However, the ruling ensures that taxis will continue to be impounded under the National Land Transport Act.

Collaboration for Progress

With the impounding issue resolved, SANTACO hopes that all parties can focus on the Taxi Task Team’s responsibilities. Collaboration among stakeholders is critical for Cape Town’s future public transport network.

Cessation of Taxi-Related Violence

The court’s decision highlights the necessity for the cessation of taxi-related violence. To address these concerns, the Taxi Task Team is set to convene in August 2023.

Importance of Collaboration

Councillor Rob Quintas, City’s MMC for Urban Mobility, acknowledged the critical role the taxi industry plays in Cape Town’s public transport network. He stressed that the City views the taxi industry as partners in ensuring that Cape Town remains a vibrant, connected city. Similarly, Western Cape Government Mobility MEC Ricardo Mackenzie expressed his pleasure with the court’s decision, asserting that it brings clarity to the terms of the agreement between the government and SANTACO.

Key Points of the Agreement

The agreement reached by stakeholders includes several key points, such as establishing a Minibus-Taxi Task Team, developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), and continuing impoundments for vehicles without valid licenses or permits or lacking roadworthiness.

Moving Forward

As Cape Town’s taxi industry moves forward, the collaboration among SANTACO, the City of Cape Town, and the Western Cape Government is essential in overcoming challenges and ensuring the well-being of the city’s commuters and transportation network. The court’s ruling has set the stage for constructive progress, paving the way for a safer, more efficient public transport system in Cape Town.

Lerato Mokena

Recent Posts

Cape Town’s Transformative Toy Libraries: Revolutionizing Early Childhood Development

Cape Town's toy libraries are changing how young children learn by creating fun and exciting…

3 weeks ago

Celebrating Ombuds Day: The Unseen Pillars of Urban Governance

Ombuds Day is here, shining a light on the City Ombudsman, a key figure in…

3 weeks ago

Innovative Urban Water Management: Embracing Wastewater Package Plants

Wastewater package plants are small, smart facilities that help cities manage dirty water in a…

3 weeks ago

Confronting Illegal Mining in South Africa: A Complex Battle

South Africa is fighting against illegal mining with a strong team of police, soldiers, and…

4 weeks ago

Balancing Tradition and Safety: Cape Town’s Fireworks Policy

Cape Town is getting ready for exciting celebrations like Diwali and Guy Fawkes Night, but…

4 weeks ago

Transforming South Africa’s Tourism Landscape: Patricia de Lille’s First 100 Days

In her first 100 days as South Africa's Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille has…

4 weeks ago