By Nomalungelo Booi
Grinds to a Halt as Taxi Associations Stage Protest Over Poor Road Conditions.
Kariega was brought to its knees on Monday morning as taxi associations took to the streets, blocking major routes and bringing traffic to a standstill. The protests, led by the Uitenhage Taxi Association (UTA), Uncedo Service Taxi Association, and the Uitenhage District Taxi Association, were sparked by the deteriorating road conditions in the town.
Mbuyiseli Mfengu, a representative of the UTA. Told Daily Kasi News “We’ve run out of patience with the municipality’s empty promises to address our infrastructure issues,”
“The roads are in a terrible state, and it’s affecting our businesses. We need to buy new tires all the time because of the potholes.”said Mfengu
The protests were not limited to just the taxi associations. The South African National Civic Organisation (Sanco) also joined in, showing solidarity with the taxi operators.
“The KwaNobuhle bridge has been broken since last year’s July floods, and the roads are littered with potholes,” Mfengu said.
“We’re tired of promises that aren’t being fulfilled. We want action, not words.”he added
The protesters made their voices clear: they will not back down until the municipality addresses their concerns. “We’ll protest until the municipality comes to address us,” Mfengu said firmly.
The protests have caused significant disruptions to traffic, with commuters facing lengthy delays and congestion on major routes. The protests are a clear indication of the frustration and anger felt by the taxi operators and the community.
As the situation continues to unfold, residents and commuters are advised to expect ongoing disruptions and to plan their routes accordingly. The municipality has yet to respond to the protests, but one thing is clear: the taxi associations will not be silenced.
PHOTO CAPTION: Taxi associations block major routes in Kariega, bringing traffic to a standstill.
QUOTE OF THE DAY: “We’ve run out of patience with the municipality’s empty promises.” – Mbuyiseli Mfengu, UTA Representative
STAY TUNED: This is a developing story, and we will bring you updates as more information becomes available.
Daily Kasi News 