A long-distance taxi strike has caused major disruptions in Durban’s Central Business District (CBD) and on the N3 outgoing route.
Story Summary:
- Long-distance taxi drivers have blocked the N3 outgoing in Durban as part of a strike.
- Drivers allege delays in the issuance of operating permits and oppose the Operation Shanela enforcement drive.
- Authorities are working to clear disruptions and restore traffic flow.
Durban long-distance taxi strike: Latest updates on Monday, 2 December 2024
The Durban Metro Police Department confirmed that protesters blocked the road early Monday morning, resulting in significant traffic delays.
Officers are on the ground working to resolve the situation and restore normal traffic flow.
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Authorities have urged motorists to avoid the affected areas and use alternative routes.
Why are the taxis protesting?
The protest stems from grievances by long-distance taxi drivers who allege that the KwaZulu-Natal Transport Department has delayed issuing their operating licences.
Drivers have also raised concerns about Operation Shanela, a law enforcement campaign targeting unroadworthy and illegal taxis.
The strike is led by taxi association members who claim that their vehicles are being unfairly impounded.
Bhekisisa Nzuza, a representative of the association, stated that the department had promised to issue operating permits, but drivers are still waiting.
“He doesn’t even want to meet with us, so we can discuss how he can stop this,” said Nzuza.
“This is simple; he just has to stop Shanela, and then we can discuss the way forward because our cars are being pounded. Nothing is being fixed, we have not received our permits even now.”
In October, the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport announced that permits were ready, but drivers claim no progress has been made.
Authorities have not announced when the strike might end. Law enforcement continues to monitor the situation closely. Updates will follow as the story develops.
