Several minibus taxi routes in Cape Town will be closed for 30 days under Section 91 of the National Land Transport Act from Wednesday, 17 September due to ongoing violence in the industry.
The Western Cape Mobility Department announced the move as a safety measure to protect commuters and restore order.
Golden Arrow Bus Services (GABS) and Metrorail will provide alternative transport during the suspension.
Affected Taxi Routes
- 611 Khayelitsha – Somerset West
- 43 Lwandle – Khayelitsha
- M18 Mfuleni – Somerset West
- X19 Nomzamo – Mfuleni
- AA20 Khayelitsha – Somerset West CBD (via Vergelegen Medical Clinic)
- AA21 Khayelitsha – Sitari Village Mall
- R96 Khayelitsha – Somerset West (via Somerset Mall)
- R97 Khayelitsha – Waterstone Mall – Somerset West
- YEX63 Mfuleni – Somerset West
- YEX64 Mfuleni – Strand (via Somerset West)
Closed Taxi Lanes
- Lane 1 – Khayelitsha (Nonkqubela & Makhaza)
- Lane 1 – Mfuleni (new & old facilities)
- Lane 2 – Somerset West Interchange
- Lane 4 – Nomzamo taxi rank
- Lane 4 – Lwandle taxi rank
While taxi ranks and roads remain open, taxi operations on these routes are suspended.
Violations may result in fines up to R5 000 or six months imprisonment.
Official Response
Western Cape Mobility Minister Isaac Sileku called the decision “difficult but necessary,” stressing commuter safety as the top priority.
He said the province would continue dialogue with taxi associations CATA and CODETA to work toward lasting peace in the sector.
The department emphasised the suspension is a short-term intervention, with long-term negotiations ongoing to prevent future outbreaks of violence.
