THE taxi strike that left thousands of commuters stranded and motorists gridlocked in traffic this morning has had a negative impact on Durban’s economy. The impact, according to the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry, will be felt both economically and socially.

The taxi industry plays a pivotal in  the movement of people in South Africa which is why any taxi strike will always have an impact on local business.

According to reports and circulating notices‚ the strike action is to protest against a hike in the cost of the Toyota Quantum Minibus.

“Many of the Durban Chamber businesses have informed us this morning that workers were not able to reach work and as such operating on a skeleton staff compliment,” said Chief Executive Officer for the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Dumile Cele.

According to Cele, the Toyota plant was not operational at all this morning. What’s more the provincial office of  the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) said they were losing money.

“The challenge, that has resulted in the taxi strike will be addressed through the various communication structures and platforms between the parties concerned,” she said.