Operation Hlokomela aims to change taxi drivers’ attitudes

The majority of public transport users in South Africa are dependent on taxis. The Department of Transport, Community Safety, has partnered with the taxi industry in a bid to curb the road carnage on South African roads. And it is all about changing drivers’ attitudes.
On Monday, taxi operators from four regions, representing Operation Hlokomela (Take Care) met at the Dundee Taxi Association offices to discuss strategies of how to deal with efforts to reduce road accidents. Bongani Mthembu, who chairs the Dundee Taxi Association, welcomed them.

Mthandeni Ndlovu, regional chairperson of the taxi industry, told the Courier that the Department of Safety in the Province funds Operation Hlokomela. He added that each region comprises of five members.

Operation Hlokomela members are volunteers trained by the Department to work together with traffic officials and the police. Their role is to do road safety checks before taxis carry passengers to their destinations.
“These Hlokomela members are proof that the taxi industry wants to ensure that the roads are safe,” said Mr Ndlovu. Thembakuhle Ndawonde, who chairs Operation Hlokomela, said the effort will be a boon to both the men behind the wheel and the passengers who rely on taxis for their everyday transport.