Park Rynie RTI stopped a minibus taxi carrying double its passenger limit on the N2 near Park Rynie on Monday morning this week (September 14).

Inspections revealed that the vehicle was carrying 30 passengers, instead of the legal limit of 15.

It was then discovered that the driver had an outstanding warrant of arrest. He was subsequently arrested and will be charged with failing to carry a driver’s licence, failing to carry a valid professional driving permit, and exceeding the permitted passenger capacity.

He will appear in the Scottburgh Magistrate’s Court.

KZN Department of Transport MEC for Transport and Human Settlements Siboniso Duma said that while the taxi driver is condemned for his reckless behaviour, passengers are also reminded to take full responsibility for their lives.

“Commuters must speak up against unauthorised seating arrangements, including the use of buckets and makeshift seats,” he said.

“These are safety hazards because too many passengers reduce the driver’s ability to steer and brake correctly due to excess weight. Extra weight increases collision risks as it puts too much pressure on tyres, causing them to heat up fast and to burst.”

The taxi has since been impounded, and motorists are warned to adhere to the rules of the road.

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