The ongoing taxi strike violence in Cape Town has disrupted public transportation and significantly impacted residents. In response, Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has taken several measures to ensure the safety and security of commuters.
Law Enforcement Escorts for MyCiTi Buses
Mayor Hill-Lewis’s initiative to support transport operators and keep commuters safe is centered around providing law enforcement escorts for over 75 MyCiTi bus routes across Cape Town. He personally assessed the effectiveness of this move by boarding a MyCiTi bus that traveled from Mitchells Plain Town Centre to the Civic Centre station.
Mayor’s Statement on Prioritizing Commuter Safety
In a statement, Mayor Hill-Lewis emphasized the importance of prioritizing commuter safety during this tumultuous period: “This is our number one priority at the moment.” He believes that providing law enforcement escorts for MyCiTi buses will not only ensure the safety of commuters, but also promote the efficient operation of the public transportation system.
Upholding Law and Order
The mayor made it clear that the City would not negotiate with a taxi industry that resorts to violence. Upholding law and order, while protecting the interests of residents and transport operators, remains a top priority for the local government.
Gratitude to Law Enforcement Agencies
Despite the current challenges, the mayor expressed his gratitude to the law enforcement agencies that have been working diligently to keep commuters safe. His personal experience on the MyCiTi bus was both safe and smooth, and he shared his appreciation for the law enforcement staff: “It’s heartwarming to see residents traveling safely.”
Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis’s hands-on approach and the unwavering support of law enforcement agencies send a clear message to the perpetrators of taxi strike violence. Cape Town residents can hope for a safe passage during these trying times.
