Kzn Long-distance Taxi Operations To Resume From Sunday

KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements MEC, Siboniso Duma, and the Durban Long-Distance Taxi Association have successfully reached an agreement to end the week-long strike that had left many commuters stranded. The strike, which disrupted transportation in the region, was sparked by frustrations over issues such as the impounding of taxis and the slow process of issuing permits to operators.

In a positive update, Duma confirmed that taxi services would resume on Sunday morning. "Weve just agreed that tomorrow Sunday, theyll be working. Tomorrow, theyll start in the morning," he said. The agreement involved discussions not only with the Durban Long-Distance Taxi Association but also other taxi associations, with the common aim of finding a resolution that benefits both operators and commuters.

Duma emphasized the importance of these negotiations for the region, particularly for tourism, which could suffer without proper long-distance taxi services. "The tourism industry will be shattered if the long distance is not being serviced properly," he noted.

To prevent future disruptions and streamline the process of issuing permits, a new task force will be formed, consisting of members from both the taxi associations and the Department of Transport. This team will meet regularly to fast-track permit processing and address other ongoing challenges in the taxi industry.

This agreement brings an end to the disruptions, and the resumption of taxi services will come as a relief to many commuters who depend on these routes for travel.