Taxi fare increase hang in the balance as fuel hike looms

Local taxi associations in the Western Cape are still weighing up whether to increase fares, as a fuel price hike takes effect on Wednesday.

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The taxi associations, CATA and CODETA, met at the Nyanga taxi rank this week, where their primary focus was resolving long-standing conflict within the industry. The two bodies signed a peace agreement, committing themselves to ending violence between their members.

However, the upcoming fuel increase also featured in discussions. Both associations indicated that no final decision has been taken on adjusting taxi fares, noting the need to balance rising operational costs with the affordability challenges faced by commuters.

SANTACO in the Western Cape echoed these concerns, with spokesperson Makhosandile Tumana noting that the organisation is very concerned about the fuel price hike.

Tumana advised that the associations have not yet held discussions over the impact of the price hike but noted that they expect it to have a “very bad” impact.

“We hear noise from our regions that our operators are struggling even to pay their instalment in the month of March and April. So [it] definitely is affecting our operators,” said Tumana.

Tumana noted that the potential impact on commuters is being considered, adding that they will try to find a solution.

“We will discuss the matter and come up with an amicable solution. Although we know it’s not going to suit all of us, but we will try to work on it.”

Meanwhile, Golden Arrow Bus Service has not responded to queries on the upcoming price hike, but previously indicated it would absorb increased fuel costs where possible and keep fares unchanged.