Closure of certain Cape Town mini-bus taxi routes comes into effect

The Western Cape Mobility Department has confirmed that from Wednesday, September 17, several mini-bus taxi routes in Cape Town will be closed for a period of 30 days in response to ongoing violence in the industry.

The closures are being implemented under Section 91 of the National Land Transport Act (2009) and apply specifically to routes and lanes in Mfuleni, Somerset West, Khayelitsha, Nomzamo, and Lwandle.

"In the past few weeks, the department said violent clashes have resulted in the deaths of six individuals between August 23 and 26, including the fatal shooting of an off-duty police officer and taxi operator on Thursday, September 4, in Lwandle near Strand

"It is alleged that the deceased was driving down the street when unknown gunmen opened fire on him and fatally shot him in the upper body. The deceased lost control of his vehicle, which came to a halt against the fence of a residence," said provincial police spokesperson Malcolm Pojie at the time.

To ensure continued mobility for residents, Golden Arrow Bus Services (GABS) and Metrorail will provide alternative transport options during this period. Temporary permits may also be issued to substitute operators where needed, the department said in a statement.

Police, law enforcement, and traffic officers will be deployed to enforce the extraordinary measures. Operators who contravene the notice face fines of up to R5 000 or imprisonment of up to six months.

Western Cape Mobility MEC Isaac Sileku said: “This was not an easy decision, but it is one that had to be taken to protect the lives of commuters and residents. The safety of our communities is our top priority. While extraordinary measures are in place, we will continue to engage with CATA and CODETA to work toward a sustainable resolution.”

The  Western Cape branch of the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) said the decision to close lanes was difficult, but remained hopeful that through the ongoing dialogue with government and other stakeholders, the stability would soon be restored. 

“We receive this decision with both sadness and understanding. Sadness, because of the long-lasting impact it will have on the livelihoods of taxi operators and their families, as well as the businesses that sustain our industry. At the same time, we understand that the measure was taken in the interest of protecting lives amid mounting violence and instability linked to our sector,” it said in a statement.

The following routes will be closed for 30 days from Wednesday, September 17:

• 611 Khayelitsha – Somerset West
• 43 Lwandle – Khayelitsha
• M18 Mfuleni – Somerset West
• X19 Nomzamo – Mfuleni
• AA20 Khayelitsha – Somerset West CBD via Vergelegen Medical Clinic
• AA21 Khayelitsha – Sitari Village Mall
• R96 Khayelitsha – Somerset West via Somerset Mall
• R97 Khayelitsha – Waterstone Mall – Somerset West
• YEX63 Mfuleni – Somerset West
• YEX64 Mfuleni – Strand via Somerset West

Closed lanes of ranks

• Lane 1 - Khayelitsha (Nonkqubela & Makhaza)
• Lane 1 - Mfuleni (new and old facilities)
• Lane 2 - Somerset West Interchange
• Lane 4 - Nomzamo taxi rank
• Lane 4 - Lwandle taxi rank