Glenvista residents recently gathered at the Shell garage for a community meeting with Ward 23 Clr Tyrell Meyers and officials to express their deep concern about an illegal taxi rank that had allegedly become a breeding ground for crime and other problems.
The issues were numerous, each placing a burden on the shoulders of those who call Glenvista home. Drug sales, muggings, smash-and-grabs, hijackings, and increased home burglaries were some issues that they mentioned.
Meyers organised the meeting in response to the community’s growing unrest. As the discussion progressed, it became clear the goal was to find solutions to the myriad problems caused by the illegal taxi rank.
“The residents want the taxi rank removed because of the crimes in the community. Since the rank has been operating at that location, crime has skyrocketed, and residents frequently feel unsafe. The meeting was called to find solutions from relevant officials.”
One resident, Carlos De Sousa, expressed they were tired of the illegal taxi rank.
“We want it gone and moved somewhere else. They break the rules of the road, endangering everyone. With their presence, crime has thrived, transforming our once-peaceful suburb into a hotbed of chaos.
“The drivers also do not follow traffic laws; we attempted to speak to them, but they ignored our concerns. The road next to the taxi rank is one of two routes we enter and exit our suburb,” said De Sousa.
Irene Mafune of the City of Johannesburg’s Citizen Relationship and Urban Management Department expressed a deep understanding of the seriousness of the issue.
“While it is undeniable that the taxi rank operates illegally and lacks essential infrastructure such as toilets, shelter, and proper waste management, we also recognise the vital role of public transport for the community,” she acknowledged.
Mafune emphasised the necessity of finding a solution that balances the needs of commuters with the safety and well-being of residents.
“It’s imperative that we work together to find common ground. We cannot disregard the needs of commuters, but we must also prioritise the safety and concerns of residents,” said Mafune.
She outlined a plan for collaboration, indicating consultation with relevant departments, discussions with the councillor, and input from both residents and commuters and the taxi association to find a solution that benefits everyone involved.
Superintendent Xolani Fihla of the JMPD echoed the sentiment, promising to step up efforts to combat crime in the area.
“We will prevent the crime in the area and increase the number of officials present in the area,” said Fihla.
The Comaro Chronicle contacted the Faraday Taxi Association and still awaiting comment.
