Specific Soweto taxi ranks and routes to close from March 15 due to conflict

Practically, what this means is that specific taxi ranks and routes in Soweto will be shut down from Friday morning for a period of three months, until 15 June this year.

The Witwatersrand Taxi Association (WATA) and Nanduwe taxi associations have until Friday to close their taxi ranks.

The decision, which was announced on Wednesday, was taken due to the on-going conflict between the two associations over routes, which has led to the death of four people since January.  

Practically, what this means is that specific taxi ranks and routes in Soweto will be shut down from Friday morning for a period of three months, until 15 June this year.

“It is necessary to shut down their minibus taxi services for the safety of commuters and residents of Soweto,” said Transport MEC Ismail Vadi.

Those found contravening the regulation will face a term of imprisonment not exceeding six months or a fine not exceeding R25 000 may be imposed.

The taxi ranks to be closed are Makhetha Stores - Central Western Jabavu; Mofolo Sizwe Stores Taxi Rank; Kwa-Mthetwa Stores (Machaba and Nxumalo Streets)  - Mofolo; Dube Station Taxi Rank; Makhetha Garage (Pela and Mahalefela Road); as well as Uncle Tom’s Hall (Orlando West). 

(With Inputs from South African Government Press Release)