The DA in Victor Khanye has teamed up with businesses to start a petition calling for the municipality to enforce by-laws on taxis on 3rd Street.
For months, businesses on this street have been harassed and intimidated by unruly taxi owners. The taxi rank is on the same premises as the municipal library. As a result, the library grounds are in a shocking state.
We have witnessed taxis parking on the wrong side of the road, even more concerning, a car wash has been set up for the taxis on the road. Businesses in the vicinity have been operating in fear. Parking meant for customers supporting businesses in the vicinity have been illegally occupied.
The petition calls on the municipality’s public safety division to stamp its authority and impound taxi’s that are found to be transgressing. Taxi owners in Delmas have been contravening parking rules which must be observed at all times on the road.
The following issues have also detailed in the petition:
- Taxis have occupied all the parking space illegally in the business area.
- The safety of customers has been compromised after some of them have been robbed.
- The library in the vicinity has also been affected as the illegal taxi car wash has brought them litter and noise.
- Collecting water illegally from the library premises.
- The car wash has led to excessive algae which causes a bad smell in the area.
On Friday, May 12 there was a meeting between the municipality and the Taxi Association, but nothing has changed. The municipality is seemingly failing to deal with the behaviour and conduct of drivers in this regard.
Businesses in this town have been greatly inconvenienced by this matter. It’s of importance to note that businesses have a purpose to play in strengthening the economy of this town while providing convenience goods to the surrounding areas.
We further acknowledge that the taxi industry contributes immensely to the local economy. Their hard work and dedication should be commended; thus, it is important for the affected businesses, municipality and taxi owners to forge a working relationship.
Therefore, we call on the municipality to play the leading role in ensuring that the by-laws are enforced and the rule of law is upheld at all times. The DA believes that a collective effort in this regard can make a difference.