A photo of the Dzanani 1 Taxi Association blocking the R523 route at the Biaba CBD T-junction on Wednesday. Photo supplied.
News Date: 01 August 2024
Taxi drivers from Nzhelele have closed several parts of the R523 road, including the Biaba T-junction and the crossing at Ha-Masotsha. Earlier this morning, it was rumoured that the protest action could also spread to the Mphephu Plaza in Siloam.
The strike, driven by the Dzanani 1 Taxi Association, started on Wednesday, leaving passengers stranded and unable to get to their places of work. Commuters were urged to find alternative transport.
The disruptions on the routes from Siloam to Biaba and Louis Trichardt via the R523 started at around 15:00 and continued until after 18:00. The taxi association’s vehicles blocked the R523 route at the Biaba CBD T-junction.
The strike action has left many learners stranded. Learners from schools such as Nngweni, Patrick Ramaano, Amaria, and Mushaathama were particularly affected, with many forced to walk home in groups due to the lack of transport.
Sources told Limpopo Mirror that the association held a lengthy meeting on Wednesday morning before instructing drivers to close the road.
Mr Maungedzo Malivha, the chairperson of the Dzanani 1 Taxi Association, said that the strike would continue until the issue of taxis operating without the necessary permits is resolved.
“Our problem is with taxis operating without permits. We have tried solving the issue with the police and traffic officers, but have not yet found a solution, so we are going to continue the strike until our problem is solved,” Malivha said. He added that the association has not submitted a formal memorandum listing their concerns but has held meetings with the relevant parties.