Taxi relief is near at hand

Weather permitting, the Taxi Rank extension should be open for use by Friday, February 26.

Despite reported delays in the completion of the project, owing to recent rains, it is believed taxis parked along Sutherland Street should have ample space by the end of this week at the earliest.

Contractors were on site mid-week, spraying a surface coat onto the compressed earth.

Elsewhere, it was stated relevant documentation and a memorandum are with the Department of Transport.

Expanding on happenings relating to taxi ranking in Newcastle, Traffic Chief, Ashok Anandhaw said the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) held its AGM and prize-giving in Newcastle, to celebrate peace and stability in the region.

“Buses were another problem we dealt with – a minor collision resulted in an altercation. However, we met with operators and the SAPS to find common ground.”

Chief Anandhaw believed the new holding area parallel to Sutherland Street would resolve many problems and reduce volumes of taxis parked on the roadside, as the street itself could not be widened further.

“The opening of the new holding area will be a huge lump out of our throats.”

On the subject of road rules and enforcement, Chief Anandhaw called on truck drivers to refrain from parking on the roadside, as this was violation of municipal property.

Truck stops such as Waterside Wimpy and Phumula Nathi Motel were intended for truck drivers.

“We appeal that they stick to the bylaws and operate from truck stops. These vehicles are not permitted on the road between 8pm and 6am.”