North Coast taxi drivers accused of flouting Covid-19 transport rules

The introduction of additional measures to protect commuters in taxis seems to have fallen on deaf ears as many taxi drivers continue to flout the new Covid-19 transport regulations.

Commuters say many taxi drivers are not complying with the additional safety measures, such as keeping windows on both sides at least 5cm open and sanitising commuters hands.

Public transport operators allowing commuters into their vehicles without a face mask can be prosecuted and jailed for up to six months, be fined, or both.

The regulations make it compulsory for all drivers and passengers to wear cloth face masks or another appropriate item that covers the nose and mouth throughout the journey.

Local commuter Nelly Dumisi does not think its a good idea to allow full capacity loads but told the Courier they have no choice in the matter.

Taxi drivers load the taxis to capacity and don’t wear masks unless they spot traffic police, she said.

“The windows are always closed and they do not sanitise. We do not feel safe travelling but there is nothing we can do.”

Another commuter, Admire Tanthola, who uses public transport to travel to work in Ballito said the majority of taxi drivers did not wear masks and those who did, do not wear them correctly.

Despite transport minister Fikile Mbalula placing the responsibility for disinfecting, sanitising and ensuring social distancing on individual taxi operators, this has not been implemented at the taxi ranks. Commuter Sibongile Malunga said taxi drivers were overloading taxis and were even taking additional passengers who were forced to stand as there was no room to sit.

“They pack us like sardines and without masks and social distancing, so we are worried.”

While public transport drivers and operators face prosecution and six months’ jail for carrying passengers without face masks, this does not seem to be a deterrent.

Other commuters complain bitterly when the windows are opened because of the cold.

“It is winter now and if we are driving in taxis that have windows open we are going to get sick,” said a Groutville resident.

South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) provincial treasurer, Bongani Mkhwanazi said they were aware of the issue and they have a fine of R150 for drivers who do not wear face masks.

“We encourage passengers to report drivers to rank managers or at the association’s offices so that necessary actions can be taken,” said Mkhwanazi.

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