Taxi strike suspended in the Western Cape
AS PROVINCIAL authorities in the Western Cape announced the suspension of violent strike action, by taxi operators in Cape Town and surrounds yesterday afternoon, the City of Cape Town reported two commuters, including a pregnant woman, were injured when a MyCiTi bus was stoned in Khayelitsha earlier in the day.
Western Cape MEC for Transport and Public Works Donald Grant said he held a meeting with the South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) and another group who identified themselves as an industry “task team”.
“While many of the concerns are yet to be resolved, there was agreement that both parties would enter into a mediation process,” Grant said.
Taxi drivers are reportedly unhappy with Santaco leadeship ahead of an election conference. Two MyCiTi bus commuters were injured in Khayelitsha during the chaos yesterday.
“One of the commuters was hit in the face by a flying rock and the pregnant commuter fell during the violent attack. Both women were severely traumatised and admitted to hospital for treatment,” said mayoral committee member for transport Brett Herron.
Herron said at least four MyCiTi buses were stoned in Dunoon, Mfuleni and Khayeltisha, while one bus was gutted after it was set alight on the N2.
Golden Arrow said it would be operating a limited service. At least one of its buses was burnt out, while at least 150 bus windows were smashed by rocks.