Image Source: Cape Argus
Local – The Western Cape Government warned that it could extend taxi route closures and rank suspensions, if necessary, amid ongoing violence in Cape Town’s taxi industry.
The announcement follows weeks of instability linked to tensions between rival associations. In an attempt to restore order, the province confirmed that several routes in the Cape Town metropolitan area will be closed for 30 days.
The closures, which began on Wednesday, 17 September 2025, fall under Section 91 of the National Land Transport Act (2009). They apply specifically to areas including Mfuleni, Somerset West, Khayelitsha, Nomzamo and Lwandle.
Western Cape Mobility MEC Isaac Sileku acknowledged that the decision came after extensive consultation and consideration. He explained that the provincial government weighed up different options before settling on the current time frame.
“We had an option to close for 90 days, because that was the intent of my notice, and we purposefully decided on 30 days. Should we not find an amicable solution within the next 30 days, I have the right to extend.”
“Ultimately, what we want to see is people coming back to the table so that we can get back to normality.”
The provincial government stressed that the measures were targeted and temporary. Officials underlined that only affected routes linked to recent violence would be suspended, while all other operations would continue.
They further pointed out that routes and ranks were chosen based on hotspots of conflict where commuter safety could not be guaranteed.
“This measure is aimed at preventing further violence, ensuring commuter safety and restoring stability. It is important to note that taxi ranks and roads will not be closed. Only the affected routes directly linked to the ongoing instability will be suspended,” a statement from the department said.
The closures include key routes such as Khayelitsha–Somerset West, Lwandle–Khayelitsha, Mfuleni–Somerset West, Nomzamo–Mfuleni, and several others linking Khayelitsha to Somerset West’s CBD, malls and medical facilities. Taxi rank lanes in Khayelitsha, Mfuleni, Somerset West, Nomzamo and Lwandle are also affected.
The decision to suspend these routes was intended to remove immediate pressure points while giving space for negotiations between associations. It also allows for security deployments to be concentrated where they are most needed.
Alternative Transport to Minimise Disruption
To maintain mobility during the suspensions, the provincial government confirmed that Golden Arrow Bus Services (GABS) and Metrorail would step in. Temporary permits may also be issued to substitute operators to ensure commuters can still access work, schools and essential services.
Authorities said law enforcement visibility would be increased, with SAPS, City of Cape Town officers and provincial traffic personnel deployed to oversee compliance. They added that penalties would be imposed on those who disregard the notice.
“The province added that operators who ignore the suspension face penalties of up to R5 000 or imprisonment of up to six months.”
Sileku highlighted that although the restrictions were disruptive, they were necessary to protect lives. He emphasised that the government remained committed to dialogue with all parties.
“This was not an easy decision, but it is one that had to be taken to protect the lives of commuters and residents. The safety of our communities is our top priority.”
“While extraordinary measures are in place, we will continue to engage with Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (CATA) and Cape Organisation for the Democratic Taxi Association (CODETA) to work toward a sustainable resolution and long-term peace in the minibus taxi industry.”
The provincial department said its goal was long-term stability. It called for stakeholders to return to negotiations and reaffirmed that lasting peace could only be secured through cooperation.
