SANTACO confirms resumption of taxi operations in Ekurhuleni after strike

JOHANNESBURG - The South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) says operations have resumed in Ekurhuleni following a strike that left thousands of commuters stranded.

On Thursday, the Germiston taxi rank came to a standstill after operators launched a stayaway.

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It's understood this was sparked by a contract that was awarded to a bus company to operate in the area, with taxi owners demanding 30% of what the bus company made from operating in that route.

The National Taxi Association (NTA) said the routes where the new bus company was operating were developed by taxi operators over the years.

It's understood the JR Chueu Bus Service agreed to pay the taxi operators 30% of its earnings for operating on the route, as it was likely to lead to financial losses for drivers.

However, SANTACO said the operators felt frustrated as the bus company did not stick to the promise it made.

Spokesperson Rebecca Phala said, "We feel that we are essentially being played around with because you have a promise being made but other things [are] happening to the contrary."

SANTACO said during a meeting that was held with the city and the provincial Department of Transport, an agreement was reached between the different parties.

"Our commuters are urged and encouraged to go back to where they get their taxis. There will be taxis operating to different destinations," said spokesperson Zweli Mnisi.

Mnisi apologised to commuters who were impacted by the strike.

"We would like to sincerely apologise for the interruptions. However, we had no choice but to embark on the shutdown."