Premier Makhura, taxi leadership, commuter organisations agree to restore peace in Mamelodi
Gauteng Premier David Makhura on Friday met with the provincial leadership of the taxi associations operating in the province to discuss plans to build a safe and reliable public transport system.
The meeting, which was attended by the representatives of South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO), National Taxi Alliance (NTA) and South African Commuters Organisation, committed to working together to stabilise the industry and prioritise the needs of commuters.
The meeting focused on short, medium to long term solutions regarding the modernisation of public transport in Gauteng, including the integration of the taxi industry.
Premier Makhura said it is a commonly shared concern that everything must be done to ensure that public transport operates peacefully and freely across Gauteng without any violence and intimidation. “It is only under conditions of peace and calm that we can roll out public transport infrastructure that meets the needs of all commuters,” said Premier Makhura.
A high level committee, to be chaired by the Premier and the leadership of the provincial SANTACO, NTA and commuters, was established. The committee will meet in two weeks’ time to focus on the modernisation of the public transport system, including the integration of the taxi industry.
The meeting also noted the concerns of taxi operators who argued that some of the taxis that were impounded do in fact meet all legal and regulatory requirements. The MECs of Roads and Transport and Community Safety will work with the taxi operators on Saturday to address these concerns.
The meeting, which was unanimous in agreeing that the interests of commuters come first, also welcomed the restoration of normality and peace in Mamelodi after the recent spate of disruptions and incidence of violence
For more information contact Premier’s spokesperson:
Nino Zama
Tel: 011 355 6009
Cell: 083 473 6725
E-mail: nino.zama@gauteng.gov.za
