The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport has urged taxi and scholar transport operators to collect their operating licences while reaffirming its commitment to working with the taxi industry and strengthening governance within the province’s licensing system.

Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport Kedibone Diale-Tlabela said operators who have received SMS notifications or communication through their associations have until August 14 to collect their operating licences or risk having them cancelled.

Diale-Tlabela said the taxi industry remains an important part of Gauteng’s public transport network and that the department remains committed to maintaining a constructive relationship with the industry.

“The taxi industry remains a critical pillar in the provision of public transport services, moving millions of Gauteng residents daily.

“The Department values its long-standing relationship with organised taxi leadership and remains committed to building a safe, reliable and commuter-centred public transport system,” she said.

Diale-Tlabela said the department’s engagements with taxi operators and associations are aimed at improving communication and accountability.

She added that the current review of the operating licence issuing model follows concerns about possible corruption within the system.

“These interventions are a direct response to allegations of irregularities, inconsistent administrative practices and possible corruption within the system.

“We have a responsibility to act decisively to protect legitimate operators and restore public confidence,” Diale-Tlabela said.

The department said preliminary findings from the review have identified discrepancies that require further verification, highlighting the need for stronger oversight of the licensing system.

The department added that operating licences continue to be issued to qualifying public transport operators across the province on a weekly basis.