GP Transport Dept to suspend taxi operations over persistent violence between associations

JOHANNESBURG -The Gauteng Department of Transport is forging ahead with a decision to suspend operations for both the Witwatersrand African Taxi Association (WATA) and Nancefield Dube West Taxi Association (NANDUWE) over persistent violence between the two.

The department impounded 47 vehicles affiliated with the warring associations on Friday.

Twenty-six are linked to WATA, while 21 are associated with NANDUWE.

The vehicles were taken off the roads for a range of infringements.

The crackdown comes amid a series of violent clashes between the rival taxi associations, prompting heightened concerns for public safety.

In response to the escalating tensions, the department says a notice will be gazetted to formalise the suspension of operations for both taxi associations.

“The MEC will this week publish a gazette and continue stakeholder consultations about the department’s intention to suspend operating licences of the taxi associations who are engaged in ongoing violence and are not willing to engage in discussions to find amicable and lasting solutions,” said Gauteng Department of Transport Lesiba Mpya.

Mpya said police are monitoring disputed routes after commuters were left stranded on Monday morning.

 “All disputed routes will be closely monitored and the deployment will also extend to any other route that faces threats of disruption, instability as well as criminality.”