Last week, residents of Somerset West and, more specifically, the residents living adjacent to the Vineyard Centre, where the taxi rank is based, were astounded by the warning from authorities about the violent and dangerous situation at the Somerset West Public Transport Interchange (PTI) in Andries Pretorius Street due to a feud among taxi owners and operators for area dominance.
And now, yet again, on this cold and wet Monday morning, the residents woke up to news and warnings from authorities that there were volatile tensions at the taxi rank again.
The warning issued stipulated to residents and other visitors to avoid the area due to the dangerous and volatile nature of the situation.
With the known history of violence at taxi ranks in other parts of South Africa, the question should be posed to the Western Cape government what makes them think (assuming they have given some thought to such possibilities) that the Somerset West PTI would be immune to the same violence and danger that have occurred at taxi ranks elsewhere?
The taxi rank is situated in the CBD of Somerset West and is surrounded by businesses, houses and complexes, churches, schools and hundreds of people who use this area daily. And now it is an area that requires warnings to avoid it because of the threat to lives and properties.
There is also a very vulnerable group of elderly residents at retirement and care facilities, based within a few metres from the taxi rank, who walk to do their shopping daily, but who are now in great danger caused by ongoing violence at the taxi rank. They and other occupants and visitors to the area have absolutely no defence against any action from these thugs operating at the taxi rank.
How can this utterly misguided decision of the Western Cape government possibly be justified if the facts and actions of these taxi operators show that the CBD of Somerset West has now been turned into a dangerous, violent and criminal hotspot?
Emmy Holliday,
Somerset West
Muneera Allie, head of communication for the Western Cape Mobility Department, responds: “We understand and regret the distress that recent events have caused residents and businesses in the surrounding area of the Somerset West PTI, and we assure residents that their concerns are being heard.
The current situation stems from a dispute between minibus taxi associations over the operation of a particular route.
The minibus taxi industry remains an essential part of the public transport system. Every day, thousands of residents across the province rely on minibus taxis to travel to work, school, and other essential services.
The department, together with the City of Cape Town and the South African National Taxi Council (Santaco), continues to engage to reach a peaceful and sustainable resolution. These discussions are ongoing in an effort to bring about a resolution.
While the situation is being addressed, we urge all residents to remain vigilant and to follow any safety advisories issued by the authorities. We appreciate your patience and cooperation during this time.
The South African Police Service and law enforcement authorities have increased visibility and are closely monitoring areas of concern to ensure the safety of residents.
We remain committed to restoring safety and calm to the area.”
