Private taxis vs public taxis, what’s the passengers’ choice?

Violent strikes, unreliable transportation and reckless driving are just a few issues patrons of public taxis know all too well.

With the introduction of the Uber taxi service in 2013, it isn’t difficult to see why the private taxi services have fast gained popularity in the Ballito area.

The Courier spoke to local residents to find out their thoughts on the two forms of transportation.

The fast convenient service and user friendly app of Uber services appeals to a more tech savvy generation, offering residents a safe alternative to public taxis.

Kerry-Ann Simons, an 18-year-old student and Ballito resident said that using Uber is faster and safer than using the public taxi service.

“Often when my friends and I are stuck for transport to varsity in Durban, we request an Uber cab and it is here in 10 minutes. The normal taxis are cheaper but more dangerous and they don’t drop you off at your door, so you still have to walk.”

Compared to metered taxis, Uber cabs are cheaper, offering clients a rate of 60 cents for every kilometre travelled.

The fare is automatically charged to the client’s credit card, making the need to carry cash unnecessary.

However, even with the benefits of travelling privately, many people simply can’t afford to use Uber as it is no match to the price of public taxis.

Patrick Masuku who is employed at Ballito Lifestyle Centre said that the private taxi charges are not for people who earn minimum wage.

“We do not pay for comfort; we pay to get home. The taxis are sometimes too loaded but drivers don’t always drive badly. I pay R7 to Shaka’s Head, if I travelled with an Uber, it would cost too much.”

According to Uber’s rate estimator, should Masuku travel by Uber, he would pay an estimate of R35.46 daily.
Ashana Rupnarain, also an employee at the Ballito Lifestyle Centre said, “We work late hours and often miss the taxis, if that happens there’s no choice but to hike a lift back to Tongaat.”

The 23-year-old added that Uber is a good option to travel but it is far too costly.
“I would use Uber on a weekend, when I can split the cost with friends but not on a daily basis or to work, it just isn’t feasible.”

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