POLOKWANE – On Tuesday, representatives of taxi associations and commuters from the informal Indian Centre taxi rank expressed concerns and raised more questions than answers about the planned renovations, which are set to begin and continue until next March.

The Polokwane Municipality’s eight-month project aims to improve safety and efficiency for operators and commuters, starting with the Moletjie section.

The municipality has designated a nearby area for the taxi business to continue operating without interruptions during the construction.

Upon completion, the municipality plans to provide dedicated parking bays, 24-hour lighting with backup power, and new paving. Thipa Selala from the municipality mentioned that the project would be executed in sections.

During a site visit on Tuesday, however, the Moletjie taxis – the first of seven taxi associations in the area – had not yet relocated due to dissatisfaction with the interim site provided.

Taxi operators expressed concerns that the allocated space along Excelsior Street, opposite Boom Street, is too small to accommodate the large number of commuters and taxis.

They also consider the space unsafe for commuters, especially during the dark winter evenings. They are requesting that the municipality develop the interim structure further before they move.

“Our customers will be very unsafe. That space is known to house drug users who often live near or under the bridge. This is a significant safety hazard. We plan to engage the municipality to provide a larger space and adequate lighting for the safety of our customers,” stated a taxi association leader.