NTLC believes taxi drivers’ attitude can be solved
RANDBURG – Taxi drivers who do not abide by the road rules can be replaced, according to NTLC.
The predicament of taxi drivers not complying with the laws of the road and posing threats to other motorists, can be tackled easily, this according to the Northern Taxi Liaison Committee (NTLC).
The business marketing officer, Johannes Rammala at NTLC explained that taxi drivers who were not complying with the rules of the road were dealt with internally. “We advise motorists to write down the registration number of those taxis,” he said.
He said if a driver was not complying – even after a disciplinary hearing, they call the owner of the taxi and they would resort to replacing the driver.
Randburg Community Policing Forum (CPF) was concerned the taxi situation was not only a threat to the residents but also to the many commuters they transport.
CPF chairperson Sandy Andrew said they were aware of the problem many taxi associations, owners and motorists experienced.
She said the associations belonging to NTLC, signed an agreement that outlines the conduct expected from them, their taxi owners and their drivers. “Contravention of the agreement is heavily penalised,” she said.
Andrew added that the behaviour of the drivers who park opposite the entrance of the Bordeaux side, was the main challenge faced by residents. “Most of those drivers are mainly from the associations that do not belong to the NTLC,” she explained.
Andrew insisted that members of the public with complaints about Randburg taxis should contact the NTLC, who will liaise with JMPD and the SAPS Sector 1 representative, Constable Hlungwani.
Chris Thomas from Bordeaux South Resident’s Association explained that strong actions were required. “Taxis are an essential part of the transport system for many people, but they’re a danger to themselves, their poor passengers and other road users,” he said.
He added that taxi drivers were getting more militant. “In one of our nearby suburbs they’ve threatened other motorists who try to stop them driving against oncoming traffic,” he said.
JMPD spokesperson Chief Superintendent Wayne Minnar, said they had intensified the law enforcement against taxi drivers who constantly ignore the law and drive in the wrong lane.
Details: NTLC 071 440 1512; Randburg CPF 082 433 6085.
