#TaxiStrike leaves thousands of commuters stranded
SANDTON – The Alexandra Taxi Association is protesting with several routes in Sandton affected.
Strike action by taxi associations across Johannesburg has left commuters stranded and forced to look for alternative transport.
https://twitter.com/TrafficSA/status/1011089108977012736
According to the Alexandra, Randburg, Midrand and Sandton Taxi Association (Armsta) they have embarked on a strike due to the recent impounding of vehicles, the petrol price increase and ‘removal of roadworthy discs’.
According to a notice circulated by the association, they want to draw the attention of the minister of transport to the alleged ill-treatment of the taxi industry.
Michael Sun, MMC for Public Safety in the City of Johannesburg, said they have received reports that some taxi ranks are not operating, thus leaving commuters stranded. He said they also had a report that a bakkie driver was intimidated for giving stranded commuters a lift.
https://twitter.com/TrafficSA/status/1011120401991299072
#TaxiStrike Minibus taxis are stationary in Alexandra, north of Johannesburg. pic.twitter.com/FmmhyrZPtN
— KhayelihleKhumalo-James Jnr (@KhayaJames) June 25, 2018
“JMPD is on full alert today and will ensure the safety of our commuters and road users.” He said they will not give in or back down to the unlawful demands by illegal operators of un-roadworthy, unlicensed and unlawful vehicles.
“The vehicles impounded are not just un-roadworthy and illegal taxis, but also over 60 trucks caught illegally dumping in the city.”
Sun continued that illegal operators cannot demand that Metro police don’t enforce the law and look the other way while taxi drivers break the law and put commuters’ lives at risk.
https://twitter.com/ItsThomas_Jr/status/1011124239540342784
I'm glad Metro is finally doing something about those death traps called taxis that are on Louis Botha even if it means messing up my Monday morning. Case in point 👇🏾#TaxiStrike pic.twitter.com/fPIaMd8zLF
— Tshianeo (@Tshianeo_M) June 25, 2018
#TaxiStrike This is one of the taxi ranks in Alexandra. It's completely abandoned and the shutdown is in full swing pic.twitter.com/08PVRWEsOy
— KhayelihleKhumalo-James Jnr (@KhayaJames) June 25, 2018
He said Operation Buya Mthetho will continue on an intensified level. “Our goal is to restore law and order in the city and to encourage our public transport operators to continue their business in a lawful and safe manner.”
Sun said a press conference will be held today to provide an update on the way forward.
What do you think about the taxi strike action? Share your views with us on the Sandton Chronicle Facebook page.
Also read:
https://www.citizen.co.za/sandton-chronicle/205164/five-ways-get-work-taxistrike/
