Jozi taxi strike ends as parties find each other

THE Transport Department confirmed yesterday that the taxi strike is over.

This follows agreement between the SA National Taxi Association (Santaco) and SA Taxi Finance Holdings.

Spokesman Ishmael Mnisi said the department condemned the violent way that drivers blocked roads, causing mayhem and anger. “They were supposed to protest peacefully but they did otherwise. However‚ we welcome the positive outcome.”

Frustration boiled over as commuters were caught up in a protest that brought parts of Johannesburg to a halt yesterday. Taxi drivers blocked key transport routes‚ causing disruption across the city. Major routes were affected‚ including the N1 in Midrand‚ the N12 and Soshanguve Highway.

The strike disrupted emergency services‚ schools‚ airport services‚ traffic and other activities. It was to protest monthly costs of Toyota Quantum vehicles. — TMG