The Krugersdorp Taxi Rank in the CBD resembles an empty shell of what it was three years ago, when it was first opened.

Vendors, drivers and commuters have raised concerns about the lack of by-law enforcement, pollution, deteriorating infrastructure and other ongoing issues at the rank.

Built in partnership with local taxi associations, the rank was scheduled to begin a relocation process on February 1, 2023. Since then, conditions have declined, causing inconvenience for users.

In November last year, the Mogale City Local Municipality and the Gauteng Department of Health met with vendors and other stakeholders to discuss steps towards creating a safer, more functional trading environment and revitalising the rank and surrounding CBD.

According to Councillor Mark Trump, the primary focus was sanitation and cleanliness, particularly for vendors selling perishable goods. He emphasised the importance of trading legally with valid permits and complying with municipal by-laws. However, many of the issues raised remain unresolved.

Regular users, including members and drivers of Krugersdorp’s largest taxi association, Kruditu, have voiced frustration. Gerald Danise, a driver affiliated with the association, said many drivers and commuters feel ignored by the municipality regarding pollution and maintenance concerns.

“When the rank was opened, we were promised engagement with the municipality, that issues such as pollution and basic maintenance would be prioritised. We voiced our complaints multiple times, yet we continue to be ignored,” Danise said.

Justice Mahlongo and Odirile Galekhutle said pollution at the rank affects their ability to operate effectively.

“There are many broken pipes polluting the area, as well as piles of rubbish not collected for months. We work with people, and it makes it difficult for us to accommodate commuters in such a chaotic environment,” Galekhutle said.

Nthabaleng Matsoe said while some issues require municipal intervention, others could be resolved through greater civic responsibility among vendors and drivers.

“I am also frustrated with public officials for not tackling the problems we face. However, I have to call out fellow vendors because I see them not using the dustbins provided to dispose of rubbish. Many times, they throw it on the ground or over the walls into the nearby sewage system,” she said.

She added that some taxi drivers contribute to the problem.

“They urinate against the walls, knowing that we have catering businesses, and no customer would feel comfortable knowing I sell food near what is supposedly a bathroom, where people, without considering their environment, expose themselves as if it were normal.”

Long-time cleaner Aletta Modisane said vandalism and theft are also common at the rank.

The Krugersdorp News has approached the municipality for comment. No response had been received at the time of publication. It will be published once received.

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