WC Mobility MEC publishes proposal for closure of routes fraught with taxi violence

CAPE TOWN - Western Cape Mobility MEC Isaac Sileku has published a notice proposing the temporary closure of certain routes affected by the ongoing taxi violence.

Gun violence linked to a feud between the Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (CATA and the Cape Organisation for the Democratic Taxi Association (CODETA) erupted in parts of Cape Town this week, claiming the lives of five people.

A dispute over a route from Mfuleni and Khayelitsha to Somerset West is suspected to be behind the attacks.

The provincial administration has secured a court interdict to help stop the violence.

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Sileku said both CATA and CODETA have been summoned to appear before the provincial taxi registrar to explain why they have failed to comply with the industry’s code of conduct.

Taxi operators, he added, may have their operating licenses suspended if they fail to provide satisfactory reasons.

"No one wants to go this route; it's a last resort. Unfortunately, as government we cannot fold our arms while people are dying on our roads, and while people's safety is being compromised," explained Sileku.

Public comments on the proposal to temporarily close certain taxi routes will be open until Monday.