Calm has been restored in Etwatwa following two days of community protest regarding the Benoni Taxi Association’s (BTA) newly implemented rule, prohibiting touting.
Angered commuters and residents barricaded the streets, using rocks and burning tyres, from August 12 to voice their dissatisfaction over the rule.
A resolution was reached following a lengthy meeting on August 13, led by Ekurhuleni MMC for Transport Andile Mngwevu.
All involved parties made an agreement and taxis resumed full service by the morning of August 14.
Mngwevu, along with members of BTA, met with the Etwatwa community to resolve the dispute.
He stated further discussions would continue between the city and the association to ensure that normal, affordable and efficient public transport is provided for the communities of Etwatwa, Daveyton, and surrounding areas.
BTA chairperson Derrick Mntambo confirmed they agreed to address the community’s concerns.
“Upon receiving the community’s memorandum, we decided to take responsibility and address all the grievances,” he said.
Community member Zenande Mbube, who attended the meeting, expressed relief: “We are glad our voices were heard. It was unjust to expect us to pay more to go to town. We were angry that those we expect to make our lives easier seemed to make things difficult for us.”
The City of Ekurhuleni spokesperson, Zweli Dlamini, emphasised the municipality’s role in the resolution: “We believe in people having access to roads. We are pleased to restore this, as the safety and mobility of people is our priority.”
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