Westenburg residents call for an improved taxi rank in the area
Resident, Renay Lion, told Bonus the Westenburg community has pleaded with the Polokwane Municipality to erect a proper structure for them at the taxi rank, for a long time.
POLOKWANE – Approaching from the side of Matlala, it is quite possible for someone to miss the Westenburg taxi rank. This is so, says resident Renay Lion, as there is but one signboard giving indications.
She told Bonus the Westenburg community has pleaded with the Polokwane Municipality to erect a proper structure for them at the taxi rank, for a long time.
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“During the protests early in 2018, the issue of the taxi rank was also raised. There is no structure that can help with the organising of the different routes and to help people while they wait for the taxi.”
There are also no proper structures to protect commuters against the weather.
“The only thing that provides shade is a big tree which fell over a few weeks ago because of the heavy winds. I have been here since 1981 and there has never been anything to protect us or to show that this is a taxi rank.”
She feels it is only after protests that something is being done: “In this area you must first break things and cause damage before the municipality comes out to help”. She says she does not believe in violence, which is why she is pleading with the municipality to put up signboards and protective structures.
Municipal Spokesperson, Thipa Selala says it is the responsibility of the municipality for a taxi rank structure to be erected, but there are processes to be followed from IDP engagement meetings.
“This is where community members are given an opportunity to raise issues that must be given attention going forward.” Selala says he encourages taxi structures to participate in municipal transport structures. “There have never been discussions about the issue before, between the municipality and residents.”
Westenburg Taxi Association Chairperson, Thabo Rams says they have tried to engage with the municipality on countless occasions but with no luck.
He said in good faith they would like to engage once more to have the issue resolved.
