Ekurhuleni Taxi Shutdown Ends: Services Resume After SANTACO Talks
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4days ago
SANTACO Strike Halts Ekurhuleni Taxi Services | EMPD Defends Vehicle Impoundments
By GlobalZa
SANTACO’s strike shuts down Germiston taxi rank, leaving commuters stranded. EMPD denies unfair impoundments, citing safety and permit compliance.
Taxi Rank Cleared After SANTACO Strike Disrupts Services in Ekurhuleni
Ekurhuleni – Taxi ranks in parts of the metro, including Germiston and Daveyton, were left deserted on Friday following a strike by the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO). The action has not only disrupted minibus taxi operations but also spilled over to affect municipal bus services and vendors who depend on the daily commuter economy.
Street traders, food stalls, and car washers—who typically earn up to R50 per taxi washed—were forced to abandon the ranks after operations ground to a halt. Commuters were left stranded as tensions grew between taxi operators and law enforcement officials.
At the heart of the dispute are claims by operators that their vehicles are being unfairly targeted and impounded by the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD).
Speaking to reporters, EMPD Deputy Director Leba clarified that only unroadworthy taxis and those operating without proper permits are being impounded.
“We are not targeting anyone. The vehicles we remove from the road are those with multiple defects or without valid operating permits. It is our responsibility to ensure the safety of drivers, passengers, and the broader community,” said Leba.
She explained that if a vehicle has more than three defects, its licence disc may be confiscated until the issues are resolved. EMPD has stressed that the enforcement operations will continue as part of their mandate, which includes crime prevention, traffic enforcement, and by-law compliance.
Despite assurances, some operators insist that taxis in good condition have also been seized—fueling anger and contributing to the strike.
Heavy police visibility was reported at affected ranks, with EMPD working alongside SAPS and other law enforcement agencies to maintain order and ensure the safety of both commuters and taxi operators.
The strike highlights the wider economic ripple effects of disruptions in the transport sector, affecting not just commuters but small-scale traders and service providers who rely on taxi ranks for their livelihoods.
