Santaco meets taxi drivers accused of illegal ranks on Winnie Mandela Drive
After residents complained about illegal parking, as well as drivers flouting traffic rules and driving dangerously, Santaco met with Fourways operators to come together to create solutions.
South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) visited Fourways this week to see first-hand what residents have been complaining about after months of reports about reckless and dangerous taxi driving in the area.
The visit comes amid growing frustration over drivers, particularly taxi operators, disregarding traffic rules, putting their own lives, and those of others, at risk.
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Nicky Jansen, a concerned resident, described her exasperation with the situation. “I’m just so tired of seeing these drivers, taxis, and others, think they are above the laws of South Africa. They do just what they want, with no consequences.”
She warned that the recklessness endangers not only drivers and passengers but also pedestrians and cyclists. “It feels as if we are heading to total anarchy.”
Residents are calling for urgent action, including a zero-tolerance campaign and stronger enforcement by the authorities. “Law enforcement agencies need to help restore our faith in their capabilities, and show us that they care as much as we do.”
Corinna Botoulas, another local, highlighted the role of ignorance and lack of education in unsafe driving. “People don’t understand that when they drive on pavements, they could kill pedestrians, which has happened before.
“If taxi drivers, and all drivers, could access proper education, from road safety and vehicle maintenance, to understanding the dangers of speeding or drinking and driving, it would greatly improve road safety.”
She referenced Nelson Mandela’s commitment to education during his imprisonment as an example of how self-improvement can change society.
Both residents agreed that unless action is taken, road safety in Fourways will continue to deteriorate. “It’s not just about rules; it’s about keeping each other alive.”
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Sabata Mbobo, the public relations officer of Santaco in Johannesburg, said they had a meeting with the chairperson of the affected association about what is happening there, especially on Winnie Mandela Drive near Fourways Mall.
“The site is in disarray. Taxi drivers claim they were allocated a space and a rank at Fourways Mall, but the designated area cannot accommodate all their vehicles. There is a rooftop section where they have been parking temporarily, but it still doesn’t fit everyone.
We have agreed with the chairperson that he will meet with mall management to find a solution to this problem.”
Xolini Fihla, from JMPD, said: “Reckless driving, particularly by taxis, is a significant danger to all road users in Johannesburg, and we are dedicated to addressing it head-on to make our roads safer for everyone.”
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