Informal taxi ranks a problem in Sandton
SANDTON - Informal taxi ranks continue to be a problem for Sandton residents.
This after the City of Joburg and Gautrain said that integrating the taxi rank that was operating in unsatisfactory conditions adjoining the Gautrain Station was a milestone in integrating public transport, all is still not well in other Sandton areas.
Concerned Bryanston resident, Sharon Frank spoke of the informal taxi rank operating along William Nicol Drive in Bryanston, just after the Pikitup Bryanston Garden Refuse Site. “Not only is this turning into a slum situation, but I’m battling to breathe at night with all the fires that are burning and my chest is closing up as a result,” complained Frank.
Ward 103 councillor, Vincent Earp said, he was sympathetic to Frank’s situation. “The situation is not acceptable and the City officials have done absolutely nothing to find a solution to the problem,” added Earp.
“I have asked for an action plan on the way forward. The City is not applying their own bylaws and it appears that City officials are either too scared to act against the taxi associations, illegal vendors and illegal activities around the bridge or they lack the ability and skills to do the task.”
Ward 90 councillor added, “This is not an easy problem to resolve. Sandton does not have taxi ranks so the taxis make their own. This is a problem at numerous sites.”
Another informal taxi rank can be found along Eton Road in Sandhurst. “This situation is now completely out of hand and it is dangerous to both motorists and pedestrians and it’s making our complex look less than desirable,” said concerned resident, Joanne Whittaker-Smith.
“The taxis are breaking the law on every level and we want them gone. We pay our rates and taxes too.”
Where else have you identified an informal taxi rank in the Sandton district? Tweet @Sandton_News the area and send a photo #TaxiRankSandton
