The strike by the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) has caused a significant disruption to city services and residents’ lives, with thousands being impacted. The ongoing violence and lawlessness linked to the strike have led to major routes being blocked and public transport operators being targeted.
Councillor Calls for Peaceful Resolution
Councillor Rob Quintas, the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Mobility, expressed his disappointment in the minibus-taxi industry‘s failure to find a peaceful resolution. He stressed the need for an end to the violence and intimidation to open discussions and negotiations.
Impact on City Services
The ongoing strike has affected various sectors, including waste management, water and sanitation, and public health.
MyCiTi Bus Service and Dial-a-Ride
The City is continuously monitoring the MyCiTi bus routes and the areas where the Dial-a-Ride service operates. Law enforcement vehicles are escorting buses and vehicles through volatile routes and areas where violence has been reported. Operations may be suspended or reinstated depending on the situation.
Urban Waste Management
Waste collection services have been significantly disrupted due to violent protests. The City urges affected residents to refrain from illegal dumping and keep waste on their property until the backlog is cleared. Residents are encouraged to report illegal dumping, with rewards offered for every fine and conviction.
Water and Sanitation Services
City teams will respond to service requests as soon as it is safe and feasible. However, the Water and Sanitation Directorate‘s service capability has been severely impacted due to targeted vandalism and arson attacks on City vehicles. Services to hotspot areas have been temporarily withdrawn, and staff and contractors face difficulty accessing informal settlements.
Community Services and Health
Several City health facilities have been closed or are offering limited services due to the ongoing situation. Clients are advised to postpone clinic visits in affected areas or visit alternative facilities. Library operations have also been affected, with several closures and limited services in certain branches.
Electricity Services
City electricity services have been disrupted in various areas, creating further inconvenience for residents.
Customer Offices, Housing Offices, and Motor Vehicle Registrations
City customer offices have been impacted, with closures in some areas. Residents are advised to phone ahead to check if an office is open or make use of online services whenever possible.
The City of Cape Town remains committed to resolving the SANTACO strike and ensuring the safety and security of its staff and residents. As the strike continues, it is crucial for all stakeholders to strive for a peaceful resolution to restore normalcy and alleviate the hardships faced by thousands of households.
