On Tuesday the Springs Taxi Association (STA) held a public meeting at the KwaThema community hall to officially notify the community about the increase and also listen to their grievances.
Public relations officer of the STA, Thomas Nkabinde, explains that the association has come to an agreement to increase the fare and to put stickers on all the 4+1 taxis in KwaThema.
This follows a misunderstanding between them and a minority of 4+1 taxi drivers who increased the fare without following the correct channels last month.
“The drivers have apologised for their misleading behaviour and now we as an association can confirm that the fare has increased,” says Nkabinde.
He further states that the sticker system that is being reintroduced will ensure that community members don’t fall victim to criminals posing as taxi drivers and motorists illegally soliciting business in the community.
In 2013, the sticker system was introduced and some 4+1’s didn’t abide by the system set out by the association, but this time around there will be legal repercussions.
“We are trying to minimise the crime rate in the community and also create a safe environment for our commuters, hence we reiterate that all drivers of 4+1’s should get a sticker,” he adds.
Nkabinde warns that community members who get into a 4+1 without a sticker do so at their own risk. The organisation will not be able to assist them should they have complaints or be put in danger by a driver.
The STA is giving drivers until April 30 to get their stickers from their offices. This is not optional.
Nkabinde also said community members raised concerns about drivers who drive under the influence of alcohol and smoke inside the taxi.
“Commuters with complaints may go to the Mzumbe Taxi Rank to lodge complaints to the 4+1 committee. If they fail to resolve the matter, then the STA will intervene,” adds Nkabinde.
