By Nokwanda Dlangamandla
14:09:2022

Public transport operators could lose their operating licenses if they are found to have been party to extortion and racketeering, which are associated with violence in the industry.

Conflict within the industry has seen public transport halt as taxi operators torch buses in Gauteng and the Western Cape.

Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula issued a stern warning to public transport operators yesterday.

Minister’s spokesperson Lwazi Khoza spoke with radio Islam International, outlining how the department plans to ensure that they have a safe and reliable public transport network.

Studies have shown that the taxi industry is transporting 60% of South African commuters due to failure and shortcomings of other forms of transport.

Hence, the transport minister is working on ensuring the rail network is up and running efficiently and reliably.

Khoza said that they are not only seeking to engage the taxi industry but also seek other forms of public transport.

This is to ensure that they do not rely on a particular industry, and should the government need to enforce a solid arm to ensure that law and order are maintained, they are not at risk of having a collapse within the public transport network, especially with it being anchored on one particular industry.

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