By Neelam Rahim

SANTACO in KZN says it supports the call for a National shutdown to protest against fuel hikes. Provincial spokesperson Nclungsi Mcamcuga that there is no option but to support a National shutdown because of the ever-increasing diesel and petrol prices.

The National Taxi Alliance says it has not yet organised or called for a National shutdown.

Radio Islam speaks to National spokesperson Theo Malela.

“Putting things in proper perspective, we as the National Taxi Alliance have not spoken to organisations on the activity of that magnitude. In essence, we are talking to the government. Only once the wheel falls off will we look into this aspect of engaging with like-minded organisations to develop an action plan that will be properly communicated. We are not part of the planned activity as no one has spoken to us. While we support them, principal, we will not be participating in their activities,” says Theo.

The rising cost of diesel and petrol is undoubtedly affecting the entire country.

Theo says, “We looked at the realisation of some of the levies and taxes on fuel primarily because there hasn’t been accurate accounting for monies that have been utilised in respect of issues like the Road Accident Fund. We are saying that this is the only solution we have at this juncture, or possibly another solution is that since the Taxi industry carries the majority of the commuting public and the taxi industry has taken government responsibility on its shoulders. It now calls for the government to take its rightful position and stop abdicating its responsibility by ensuring that it subsidises the passenger. ”

Theo also says, “From observations, there’s a slight decline in commuters travelling to shopping malls but regards the normal commuting from work to back home there is still sufficient driver ship. We feel the pressures as operators contemplating an increase in our fairs. We will make such an announcement once we have all agreed internally. Within the next three weeks or so, we should be in a position to indicate that percentage of our increases.”