On Day 3 of the ongoing taxi protests in Durban, key routes remain disrupted as long-distance taxi operators continue their blockade over permit issues.
Story Summary:
- Day 3 of the Durban taxi protests sees continued road closures and disruptions, including key routes like Umgeni Rd and the N3.
- Long-distance taxi operators are protesting against KZN’s Operation Shanela over impounded taxis and permit issues.
- Officials urge commuters to avoid affected roads and exercise caution as efforts to resolve the dispute continue.
Durban taxi protests: Here are the latest updates
According to KZN traffic authorities, roads near Durban Station, including Umgeni Road (R102), remain heavily affected on Wednesday, with disruptions spreading to major routes such as the N3 towards Pietermaritzburg and the N2 towards Ballito.
Limited access is available along Johannes Nkosi Street (Alice Street) with only one lane open for traffic entering town from the N3.
Metro Police, supported by K9 units, are on-site to manage the situation as towed vehicles are gradually cleared.
However, commuters are advised to remain cautious on these routes.
Meanwhile, Seaview Road, especially near the Seaview/Marnavale intersection, is closed due to safety concerns after a taxi driver reportedly removed barriers and accessed the closed road illegally.
Ward 65 Councillor Samantha Windvogel issued a warning against using this route, emphasising public safety amid ongoing road repairs.
The backstory: Why Durban’s taxi operators are protesting
The protests were sparked by frustration within Durban’s long-distance taxi industry, stemming from disputes with KwaZulu-Natal’s Operation Shanela, a traffic enforcement initiative.
Taxi operators argue that Shanela unfairly targets them, leading to extensive vehicle impoundments in regions like Empangeni, Ulundi, Newcastle, and Vryheid.
Thokozani Nala of the Durban Long Distance Taxi Association claims over 50 taxis were impounded in recent weeks, attributing the issue to a lack of permit access and the perceived “harassment” by the operation.
KwaZulu-Natal Transport MEC Siboniso Duma has been working with the industry to find a resolution.
A recent meeting was held in Pietermaritzburg, where Duma addressed permit availability, noting that operators had failed to collect 115 permits issued to them, of which 84 would expire within 60 days if left unclaimed.
Commuters continue to experience extended delays, with many expressing frustration over the lack of communication from the taxi industry regarding service interruptions.