The Western Cape taxi industry has partnered with local businesses in a new initiative to improve public transport for both operators and passengers, Cape {town} Etc reports.
Also read: Will a surge in impoundments lead to another taxi strike?
Led by the Cape Chamber of Commerce & Industry and SANTACO (South Africa’s largest taxi association), the initiative includes a new Taxi Cluster focused on industry self-regulation and cost reductions for eligible taxi owners.
The Taxi Cluster aims to solve key issues in the industry, such as road safety and legal compliance, and introduces a crime-reporting feature through a mobile app for drivers.
The initiative also involves partnerships with Vodacom, MTN, Standard Bank, and others to bring benefits like affordable vehicle financing and tracking systems.
Derryn Brigg, deputy president of the Cape Chamber, described the initiative as a ‘breakthrough, self-sustainable model,’ highlighting its potential to boost profitability by tracking driver behaviour and reducing costs for loans, insurance, and maintenance.
Mandla Hermanus, SANTACO Western Cape’s provincial secretary, called the Cluster a ‘game-changer’ for public transport, as it allows branding and tracking of taxis. ‘This ensures commuters are riding in legitimate taxis and improves driver behavior, which enhances community safety,’ he said.
This initiative comes amid tensions between the City of Cape Town and taxi associations due to recent taxi impoundments.
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Picture: Brenton Geach / Gallo Images
CapeTown ETC
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