News24 reports that 30 days have elapsed since the Western Cape Department of Mobility enforced the closure of nine taxi routes and specific lanes at the Khayelitsha, Makhaza, Mfuleni, Somerset West, Nomzamo and Lwandle ranks.

The temporary shutdown was imposed after violence within the taxi industry claimed the lives of several people, including commuters. The routes were at the centre of the conflict between rival associations. This week, Mobility MEC Isaac Sileku issued a notice of intent to extend the extraordinary measures for another 30 days. The affected taxi associations have been given 24 hours to submit their comments. Sileku said the extension was a precautionary step while dialogue continued. He added that the talks between the two rival associations had so far shown “intent and commitment” toward achieving a peaceful resolution. “We have seen no further acts of violence or disruptions since these measures were first implemented,” Sileku advised. Last week, the Congress of Democratic Taxi Associations (Codeta) lost its court appeal to overturn the department’s decision to close the routes and ranks affected by the ongoing conflict.

• Read the full original of the report in the above regard by Velani Ludidi at News24 (subscription / trial registration required)

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