Tensions run high as persons with disabilities picket against cuts to CoCT's Dial-A-Ride service

CAPE TOWN - Persons with disabilities are picketing outside the Cape Town Civic Centre against cuts to the Dial-A-Ride service.

The service, which is used by disabled people to move around the city, will be scaled back from 8 September.

The service will only be available for wheelchair users and people with severe walking impairments.

The city said that the changes were due to budget constraints.

Tensions are running high outside the Cape Town Civic Centre, as people with disabilities seek answers from the municipality about the scaling back of the Dial-A-Ride service.

The city’s decision means people with visual and cognitive impairments, the elderly, and organisations using the service to transport people with disabilities will be excluded.

Dial-A-Ride user Debbie Bedien has accused the city of failing disabled people.

"Why is the cycle lane so important? Because our premier might want to ride a bike and he has two functional legs. What about those who cannot walk?"

Mayco Member for Mobility Rob Quintas said he would look into the list of grievances presented to the metro.