More control for taxi industry

The taxi industry needs higher levels of regulation. Especially after the recent accident in Shaka’s Head, where 16 people were killed. And a week later a taxi accident in KwaDabeka in which a toddler was fatally injured.

There are numerous instances of taxi drivers deserting a vehicle just after being involved in an accident. Also of drivers driving whilst under the influence of alcohol. In so many other industries eg medical, education, engineering, there are processes involved that ensure that the industry is regulated so that no harm is done to the clients. The same high standards should apply to the taxi industry, since one taxi incident can ruin the lives of many people as well as their families.

If you can look into many taxis, especially at rush hours, they remain overloaded with passengers and some of these taxis look as though they are falling apart and are unsafe to travel in. The taxi industry is an important structure within the economy of our country since many workers use this as their only means of transport. Also we can see that during previous taxi strikes how business comes to a halt in towns like Shakaskraal.

The taxi industry needs higher standards of regulation in order to ensure safe transport for their paying customers.

DR NIVASHA NAIDOO

Shakaskraal