Steadville residents block roads in taxi protest

Heavily-armed police, including Ladysmith K9 Unit officers, kept an eye on the angry protesters to make sure the situation did not get out of hand

July 1, 2014

Sipho Zama 1 minute read

Police officers keep a close eye on the situation.

Hundreds of Steadville residents blocked roads with rocks and burning tyres in the early hours of this morning (about 3am), and refused to let taxis use the main roads leading to Steadville.

All those who use taxis to get to work had to find alternative modes of transport. The Ladysmith Gazette received information yesterday (Monday) from a reliable source that there might be a strike on the horizon because of the taxi fare increase (effective on July 1).

Klipriver Taxi Association member Mr Hlatshwayo, however, denied the strike allegations.

The Ladysmith Gazette headed out to the Steadville area after receiving information this morning that Public Safety officers had closed all entrances to Steadville, barring all vehicles from entering the township.

Heavily-armed police, including Ladysmith K9 Unit officers, kept an eye on the angry protesters to make sure the situation did not get out of hand. It was clear to all at the scene that those staging the protest were incredibly angry and that it was an extremely volatile situation. One of the strikers commented that they are tired of the attitude taxi drivers have.

“We know everything is going up in price, but the way in which taxi drivers treat their clients is unacceptable. They make us feel as if we are lower than dirt. Now they want to put the price up as well. Enough is enough!” said the angry protester.

The Klipriver Taxi Association was contacted again this morning and Mr Hlatshwayo told the Gazette that they are planning to meet with the mayor, councillors and Steadville residents to find a solution.