Stakeholders to work together towards taxi space solution
ROSEBANK – There seems to be minimal response from City regarding the minibus taxis' holding area space in Rosebank.
Rosebank is currently facing significant challenges with the number and volume of minibus taxis in the area.
According to Excellerate Precinct manager Lerato Khiba, the Rosebank Taxi Rank, privately upgraded in 2016, was not designed to accommodate the ever-increasing number of taxis operating in the area. “This is an important public transport medium upon which many commuters working in the greater Rosebank area rely.
“Equally, the taxi operators face challenges in accommodating their vehicles during the day while not picking up passengers, commonly known as ‘holding’.”
She added that the Rosebank Management District (RMD) seeks to maintain and contribute in creating a public space that is shared and used by all who visit, work and live in Rosebank. Several taxis were ‘holding’ in Keyes Park on a temporary basis. However, these operators were displaced when construction began on the site last Friday.
“Having little support or assistance from the City of Johannesburg, they approached RMD to assist in facilitating an alternative venue. We have actively called on these various taxi associations, the City of Johannesburg’s Department of Transport and the ward councillor to provide information, strategies and suggest interim and long-term solutions conducive to all stakeholders,” Khiba said.
Lawrence Sandile Mbatha from the Rosebank Rank Committee said he was upset that the community of Rosebank did not welcome them as their job is to transport people to their places of work. “The area is rapidly developing and the number of people coming here for various purposes is increasing.
“We (taxi operators) were here before other modes of transport such as Rea Vaya and Gautrain but they get more accommodation space and appreciation from government than us.”
His co-representative and rank manager, Johannes Musekwa, added to that and said that before constructing new properties, government and stakeholders must also consult public transport stakeholders. “We need each other to contribute to the well-being of the economy.
“As it is, the taxi industry is the biggest and most affordable contributor considering the many vehicles we buy, drivers we employ, amount of petrol we buy and the many small businesses of people who cook and sell food at the ranks.”
Khiba said that the RMD is not authorised to allocate parking on roads as this remains the mandate of the City of Johannesburg. There was, however, no response after contacting the City of Johannesburg’s Department of Transport through email and phone calls for two weeks until the time of going to the press. Ward 117 councillor Tim Truluck said his role is that of oversight and making sure that taxi associations comply with whatever mandate is delegated by the City.
Details: Excellerate Managed Services | www.excellerate.co.za
Do you have community issues for public awareness? Send an email with details to naidines@caxton.co.za
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