Tensions and rivalry between bus companies and taxi operators in Rustenburg has escalated and turned violent as commuters are alleged to be forced out of buses by taxi drivers.
Taxi associations claim buses are encroaching on their market at a Rustenburg taxi rank for long distance transport where commuters would be flocking during the Easter weekend.
The South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) deputy chairperson Herman Sebogo didn’t deny or condemn claims that taxi operators have forcefully removed commuters from buses. Instead he accused bus drivers of provoking the violent reaction from taxi drivers because they were “illegally picking up commuters”.
“Yes, I can confirm that the incident took place where taxi operators removed commuters from buses, reason being there was an illegal operation which was visible hence taxi operators reacted.
“There are some individuals who hire the Bojanala buses for special trips, but ferry commuters at the bus rank and after engaging with them, we have found that they charge triple the amount. Let’s say the Bojanala buses charges him seven thousand, he doubles or triple the amount for that trip, so that causes tensions .
“But last week, we engaged with the MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Sello Lehari, the taxi associations and the Bojanala bus company representatives here in Rustenburg, where we discussed this issue. We spoke with taxi operators and bus operators as well as commuters,” said Sebego.
Lehari said his department is mediating between the warring factions and a follow-up meeting will be held after the Easter holidays.
