Safe, reliable and smaller local transport options
Operators of alternative modes of transport say business has picked up recently.
POLOKWANE – In light of the Covid-19 outbreak, people are taking more precaution when it comes to health and safety. This also applies to the transport industry. With many people making use of public transport, safety has become a priority when making your daily commute. Review spoke to operators of two alternative modes of transport available in Polokwane, for commuters who might be concerned about their health when travelling.
Fresh Prince Maxi Taxi
Owned by Jerry Prince Pete, Fresh Prince Maxi Taxi is a 24-hour transport service. He said business has picked up since lockdown regulations were eased and he is finding that more people are opting for private transport as opposed to transport that would require sitting in a closed space with 16 other commuters. “I believe that it is for health reasons that people are moving to maxis,” he said.
His business is a maxi and shuttle service that conducts long distance trips as well. You can also book him to wait for you to run errands. “Safety is a priority for us. We have sanitiser and clients are required to wear masks during their commute,” he explained. His rates are aligned with other market-related apps and he charges per kilometre for long distance trips. He is available on call or WhatsApp at 076 534 6338.
Tuk-tuber
This alternative transport service is owned by Fanie Prinsloo and provides safe, reliable and affordable transport. Prinsloo explained that he can’t say business has increased since the easing of regulations as most of the clients he works with are regulars, except for a new client here and there. One possible selling point for commuters in the tuk-tuk (auto-rickshaw) is that it is a fairly uncommon ride and clients have the option of a good, trusted motor vehicle to get them to their destination safely.
“We charge R70 for a single trip over a 10 km radius and safety is a priority, hence we have built up a clientele of regulars,” he explained. Clients are required to follow regulations by having on a mask and sanitising. To book a trip, call or WhatsApp Tuk-tuber at 060 829 5749.
