VUKTA and ZAMTA find common ground amidst taxi violence in Secunda
The point of conflict came about as a result of a dispute between the two taxi associations as to who is authorised to operate on the Secunda-Lebogang route, load and deliver to and fro.
After prolonged impasse between Vukanini (VUKTA) and Zamokuhle (ZAMTA) taxi associations in Secunda over disputed routes, the two have finally agreed to work together in line with Department’s findings.
On January 23, the MEC for Public Works, Roads and Transport, Mr Gillion Mashego accompanied by Community Safety, Security and Liaison MEC, Mr Pat Ngomane and the Executive Mayor of Govan Mbeki Local Municipality, Cllr Yvonne Ngxonono met with the associations is Secunda to resolve the stalemate which has left many taxi commuters stranded without transport.
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Both associations argued to have the necessary permit, MEC Mashego revealed that according to the Department’s records, none of the two associations have permit to load from Secunda to Lebogang.
Although, ZAMTA has a permit to load from Lebogang to Secunda, they are not authorised to load back. This means that commuters travelling from Secunda to Lebogang may only use alternative public transport such as buses until approval is granted upon application if circumstances permit.
Both associations welcomed the findings and pledged their commitment to comply with the directive. MEC Ngomane emphasised on the need for peace and stability and assured police visibility to avert any further disruptions as requested by the associations.
