Ward 94 councillor David Foley was on Cedar Road, just past Fourways Life Hospital, this week to personally observe the dangerous behaviour of taxi drivers that he says have plagued the area for months. “I’ve received numerous complaints over the last six months about the taxi behaviour on this road.
There are two islands in the middle of the road, and taxis are driving over them and into oncoming traffic.”
The councillor has written repeatedly to the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) since June, sending three follow-up emails describing the daily risks faced by commuters, particularly during morning peak traffic.
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While traffic officers have been deployed, Foley said the problem continues, and is not limited to Cedar Road.
“On Winnie Mandela Drive, taxis are even driving on the pedestrian walkway. Not long ago, a cyclist was knocked over and his bicycle damaged. The taxi driver even opened a case against him, which I’m sure will be dismissed in court.”
Foley has also appealed to the MEC for Gauteng Roads and Transport Department to install barrier railings along Winnie Mandela Drive to protect pedestrians and cyclists. “We cannot have taxi drivers, and now other vehicles, mounting the kerb and chasing pedestrians and cyclists off the walkway. That road was extended so they could travel safely.”
According to Foley, accidents on these roads are frequent, including a car rollover on Cedar Road and multiple incidents near the Stone River intersection. He said that speeding on these provincial roads, where the limit is 80km/h, contributes to the danger.
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“This is exactly why accidents happen. Driver behaviour here is out of control.” He pointed out videos showing taxis and other vehicles driving recklessly over the median islands.
Benjamin Ngoma, who cycles to work every day, said: “It’s terrifying. Taxis, and even some cars, come flying past, and you’re left dodging them just to stay safe.
I’ve seen close calls more times than I can count, and it really feels like our safety doesn’t matter to some drivers. It’s stressful, and I just hope the authorities step up before someone gets seriously hurt.”
@caxtonjoburgnorth Ward 94 councillor David Foley literally put his foot down, standing in front of taxis to protect pedestrians and cyclists on Winnie Mandela Drive. Video: Ditiro Masuku #Ward94 #Fourways ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North
Foley called on all levels of law enforcement to increase their presence in the area.
“I appeal to the JMPD, the provincial police, and the national police team to be around in these areas to protect people’s lives.”
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