The Eastern Cape Department of Transport, Safety and Liaison is urging commuters to make alternative transport arrangements for Wednesday September 19.
This follows reports of an imminent strike by the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) across the province.
Provincial transport spokesperson Unathi Binqose said that the reported strike is likely to have a negative impact on both government and the private sector
“It is important to note that the department has on numerous occasions sat down with the leadership of SANTACO to discuss the challenge of constant fuel hikes with respect to scholar transport operators. We recognise that the cry is a legitimate one. However, due to budgetary constraints, our hands are tied,” he said.
He added that the allegations of arrogance and not taking the taxi industry seriously made against Transport, Safety and Liaison MEC Weziwe Tikana, are unfortunate and unfair.
“MEC Tikana is one of the most humble, fair and yet very firm people around. She has on numerous occasion held robust, frank and yet cordial engagements with leaders in the taxi industry and she also acknowledges the role played by the taxi industry in keeping the wheels of production and service delivery moving in the province,” said Binqose.
