KwaZulu-Natal’s MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, issued an update on Wednesday, addressing the ongoing taxi strike that has blocked roads and left commuters stranded in Durban’s CBD.
Story Summary:
- KZN Transport advises on Durban CBD road closures due to the ongoing taxi strike by long-distance operators.
- Key affected routes include Umgeni Road, N3, and N2, with police monitoring traffic.
- The strike centres on permit issues, with KZN Transport encouraging compliance from operators.
KZN Transport reacts to Durban taxi strike
Speaking from Inkosi Mhlabunzima Maphumulo House, Duma acknowledged the permit-related grievances raised by the Durban Long Distance Taxi Association and confirmed that operators have started coming forward to collect their permits, which the department had been urging them to obtain.
The MEC advised that Durban Metro Police officers are actively monitoring the situation, with support from K9 units to ensure public safety amid the disruptions.
He urged residents and drivers in the affected areas to exercise caution and report any emergencies promptly.
The strike has caused significant disruptions on key routes, including Umgeni Road (R102) near Durban Station, with effects extending to the N3 toward Pietermaritzburg and the N2 towards Ballito.
Access to Johannes Nkosi Street (Alice Street) remains limited, with only one lane open to vehicles entering town from the N3.
Additional closures are in place on Seaview Road near the Seaview/Marnavale intersection, following reports of a taxi driver illegally bypassing the barriers.
Authorities have warned residents to avoid this route due to ongoing road repairs and safety concerns.
The taxi strike began earlier this week as long-distance taxi operators protested against what they described as unfair permit restrictions imposed by KwaZulu-Natal’s Operation Shanela, a provincial traffic enforcement initiative.
Operators have voiced frustration over what they call “harassment” by the unit, claiming over 50 taxis were impounded in areas such as Empangeni, Ulundi, and Vryheid for lacking updated permits.
According to taxi association spokesperson Thokozani Nala, drivers are requesting streamlined permit processes and fairer treatment, with many stating that the current enforcement measures disrupt their operations.
KZN Transport officials, including MEC Siboniso Duma, have encouraged operators to collect their available permits, noting that a backlog of more than 115 permits remains unclaimed.
Duma stressed that the department is committed to resolving the issue but urged all parties to work within the law to avoid further disruptions.
