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Local – Violence and intimidation against e-hailing drivers, privately operated transport services, and commuters by some public transport operators, notably taxi drivers, has long been a concern.
Authorities in Gauteng have expressed alarm at recent spikes in such incidents, warning that these actions undermine public safety and the rights of commuters.
Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport Kedibone Diale-Tlabela issued a strong condemnation of reports of intimidation and coercion of commuters and private vehicle owners. She stressed that such behaviour would not be tolerated on the province’s roads.
“Any form of bullying or coercion on our roads is unacceptable. Our officers are actively intervening to protect the public and uphold peace. Commuters’ constitutional right to choose their preferred mode of transport is fully protected,” the MEC said on Thursday.
Crisis Committee Established
To address the ongoing instability in the sector, the Department of Roads and Transport established the Public Transport Crisis Committee in January 2025.
The committee, chaired by the MEC, convenes weekly on Fridays to coordinate solutions with stakeholders across the taxi, bus, e-hailing and scholar transport sectors.
The MEC explained that the committee was established to promote dialogue, improve compliance with transport laws, and strengthen protection for commuters across Gauteng’s transport system.
“We are bringing all industry stakeholders under one roof to ensure that operations comply with the law and that commuters are treated fairly,” the MEC said.
The department has also highlighted risks faced by commuters who use unregistered or illegal e-hailing services. Officials say relying on informal operators exposes passengers to safety concerns and undermines efforts to regulate the industry.
Diale-Tlabela encouraged commuters to use only legal platforms, while assuring residents that law enforcement is active in known hotspots.
“Law enforcement has been deployed in areas where illegal practices have been reported. Gauteng residents deserve a safe, reliable, and lawful transport system. We are committed to ensuring that every commuter can travel without any form of fear or intimidation,” Diale-Tlabela said.
Law Enforcement on the Ground
The Gauteng Transport Inspectorate (GTI) has stepped up enforcement across the province. This week, officials confirmed that more than 16 vehicles had been impounded for offences such as unroadworthy conditions and illegal operations.
The department stated that enforcement measures, including vehicle impoundments, are implemented under the provisions of the National Land Transport Act to safeguard commuters.
“We will not allow lawlessness, illegal operations and unroadworthy vehicles to put commuters’ lives at risk.
“Our law enforcement teams are on the ground to ensure peace, enforce compliance and lawful operations at all times. The safety and rights of our commuters are non-negotiable,” Diale-Tlabela said.
