For months, taxis have hampered the traffic flow in Paradise by parking on the sidewalks along Lincoln and Sutherland streets.
This, however, is set to come to an end within the next two weeks, as the municipality is finalising the construction of the holding bay adjacent to the taxi rank.
The only work left is to the entrance and exit and is expected to be complete by the end of the week, with the completion of the fencing within the following week.
Civil Services Director, Vusi Mboyana said the holding bay was initially meant to be complete on January 29, but, rainfall hampered construction and resulted in the delay.
Since December 2015, a total of 433 taxis were fined for various traffic offences.
Ashok Anandhaw, Protection Services Chief Traffic Officer, said while taxi drivers were reprimanded for offences, they were allowed to enter residential areas.
“Depending on activity, taxis are allowed in residential areas as they provide a vital public transport service, especially to those commuters who are not privileged to own or use private transport. Without condoning the parking of taxis along Lincoln Street, to date, we have not received any dangerous activity associated with the temporary presence of the vehicles,” he said.
While the demarcated holding is not completed yet, traffic officers are doing their best to control the situation.
“Our statistics prove law enforcement is conducted. It is a sad reality that it is only when law enforcers are present that most road users abide by the rules. We are doing our best to cover all areas, traffic related incidents, events and complaints optimally,” said Chief Anandhaw.
He encouraged motorists using Sutherland and Lincoln streets to remain patient in the meantime.
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