Commuters left stranded amid taxi strike across Ekurhuleni
by Mathipa Phishego
A wave of transport disruption hit parts of Ekurhuleni today as taxi operators affiliated with the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) halted services, leaving commuters stranded and exposing deep-seated tensions between the industry and authorities.
From Thursday morning, operations were suspended in key areas including Johannesburg, Katlehong, Germiston, Benoni and beyond. Bringing the daily commute to a halt.
Thousands of commuters were left waiting idly at taxi ranks. With many resorting to walking, carpooling, or relying on ride-hailing services.
SANTACO’s Ekurhuleni regional secretary, Zweli Mnisi, said the primary catalyst for the strike was the persistent impoundment of 10-seater (baby buses). Which are often seized for lacking operating licenses.
However, the problem lies in the fact that those specific permits are no longer being issued by the relevant authorities leaving operators trapped in a legal limbo.
“Each impoundment carries fines of up to R5,000. A financial burden deemed untenable for many. Especially operators managing multiple vehicles,” he said.
Operators accuse law enforcement of applying the rules selectively targeting traditional taxis. While e-hailing services (often using unregulated 7-seater vehicles) continue to operate freely without interference.
The ripple effect of the strike intensified when the city announced the suspension of the Harambee bus service. Further constraining alternative transport options for commuters.
City of Ekurhuleni spokesperson, Zweli Dlamini expressed regret for the inconvenience. Urging people to find alternative transport while stakeholders work toward resolution.
In response to the industry’s claims, the City of Ekurhuleni refuted allegations of targeting taxi operators. Clarifying that law enforcement actions including using the Taxi Task team and Gauteng Traffic Police.
Are overseen by the provincial Department of Transport. They highlighted a recent raid in mid-August.
Where multiple unlicensed and unroadworthy vehicles were impounded. Showing the government’s commitment to enforcing safety and compliance.
Gauteng Department of Transport spokesperson, Lesiba Mpya emphasized that the government’s stance on lawful operation. He stressed that any vehicle operating without a valid operating license regardless of type or platform. Is subject to enforcement and impoundment.
Documents dating back to 2023 have reportedly been used to justify such seizures. Underscoring the regulatory system’s scope even amid claims of licensing bottlenecks.
The fallout from the strike has been deeply felt by everyday commuters. Many found themselves late for work or school.
Some resorting to costly and often unreliable alternatives like ride-hailing. Which in past incidents have surged prices during such shutdowns.
SANTACO has called for urgent talks with provincial authorities and transport departments to find a solution to the licensing impasse.
Pleading for fair and uniform enforcement. Without a viable pathway to compliance.
Taxi operators say, “the industry’s sustainability and by extension, commuters’ daily mobility—is threatened.”
