Transport crisis hits commuters as Minister Creecy warns of taxi violence, rail challenges

South Africans who rely on public transport are still facing major challenges, with taxi violence, struggling passenger rail services and rising costs putting pressure on daily commuters.

Transport Minister Barbara Creecy said urgent action is needed to stabilise the system and improve reliability.

Taxi violence remains a serious threat

Taxi violence continues to disrupt routes and put both passengers and operators at risk.

Creecy described the violence as criminal in nature, affecting not only commuters but also taxi owners themselves.

“My own experience of taxi violence is that it is a criminal activity,” she said.

She added that high unemployment is intensifying competition for profitable routes, leading to conflict in the industry.

“There are more people who want to operate… than there are profitable routes to absorb them.”

At the same time, rising fuel costs are squeezing the industry, reducing service quality and increasing risks for commuters.

Rail system still under pressure

Passenger rail remains unreliable for many South Africans who depend on it daily.

Creecy acknowledged ongoing concerns around the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA), despite some progress.

“I do think that PRASA has done amazing work and come a very long way,” she said.

However, she pointed to ‘ongoing legacy issues’ and confirmed that investigations into governance and procurement concerns are underway.

The agency is expected to appear before Parliament to account for issues linked to its fleet revitalisation programme.

The transport system must adapt and integrate

Creecy said South Africa cannot ignore global changes in transport and must modernise its systems.

She highlighted the need for better integration between local transport modes and stronger links with regional systems.

“We need to seize them as opportunities, and we need to build integration between local modes of transport,” she said.

Road safety concerns ahead of Easter

With the Easter period approaching, authorities are preparing for increased traffic and accident risks.

Creecy said enforcement will focus on vehicle roadworthiness, speeding and drunk driving.

Pedestrian safety is also a major concern.

“They still account for more than 50% of road deaths,” she said.

For millions of South Africans who depend on taxis and trains every day, the message is clear: fixing public transport remains urgent, as safety, affordability and reliability continue to fall short.

For more information, listen to Creecy 702’s Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa using the audio player below: