Illegal taxi rank continues to flourish in Paulshof

Ward 93 councillor Annette Deppe has confirmed an illegal taxi rank has now developed on these roads. “This reflects the Sunninghill taxi rank situation, as large amounts of people work in the area which influences the taxi’s parking on these roads,” said Deppe.

She believes a solution is needed. With the co-operation of the residents, the problems can be resolved sooner.

According to Deppe, this is a bylaw infringement matter and it has to be taken up with Metro police.

According to Shathi Govender, the chairperson of the Paulshof Residents’ Association, there have been many instances where he has witnessed taxis stopping illegally. He explained that the problem is caused by a combination of reasons.

“There is a lack of parking space and no taxi rank. Workers and commuters are scattered throughout the area, causing this,” he said.

Moreover, he said residents have complained that they have been threatened by taxi drivers when trying to get passed them during peak hour traffic.

Metro police spokesperson Wayne Minnaar said they are doing the best to curb taxis parking illegally on these roads, and that warnings and fines will be issued to anyone parking illegally. He said commuters should not flag down taxis at inappropriate places influencing this behaviour. Govender believes that Metro police needs to be more proactive and stricter when it comes to taxis.