GAUTENG TRANSPORT WARNS COMMUTERS OF IMPENDING TAXI WAR. 

Written by: Tlotlego Ranchu

Tensions between the Witwatersrand African Taxi Owners Association (WATA) and the Nancefield-Dube Taxi Association’s (NANDUWE) arise as the two associations threaten violence between themselves.

The MEC of Roads and Transport Kedibone Diale-Tlabela revealed in a statement, that the police have notified her department of a looming taxi war between the two associations, which have been at odds for years in parts of Soweto in a battle over routes.

To combat the resurgence of violence between WATA and NANDUWE, the Gauteng Transport department is set to suspend operating licenses linked to the feuding taxi operators.

“This is an old issue, and we are trying our best to make sure it’s resolved amicably but also we have a permanent solution to it”.

Earlier this week, Diale-Tlabela said she has been in talks with law enforcement agencies and the Provincial Joint Operation and Intelligence Structure (PROVJOINTS) to ensure safety for commuters should alternative transport service is introduced, it will not be disrupted by the associations. She further pleaded to associations to come forward for negotiations.

“We are pleading with them, we are still open. They must come to the table. We can’t accept people killing each other”.

This follows police operations which resulted in the impounding of almost 50 taxis belonging to both associations last week. The MEC says police have been mobilised in several areas of Soweto where there have been threats of violence.

Earlier this week, WATA retaliated against the impounding of their vehicles by staging a three-day stay away, leaving commuters stranded in both Soweto and central Johannesburg.