The B97-Taxi route is reopening soon. The route between Mbkweni (in Paarl) and Bellville has been closed for more than a year now, following violent attacks.
The Mobility MEC, Daylynn Mitchelle has welcomed the agreement that was signed yesterday. The rival taxi organizations have pledged to share the contentious route, following discussions with the government.
Closing the route
Mitchell explains, “During July 2021, I invoked my powers in terms of section 91 of the National Land Transport Act (Act no.5 of 2009) to close the route. This follows several incidents of violent conflict and the loss of lives. This decision was taken in consultation with the affected municipalities, the South African Police Services, and regulatory stakeholders. This as the safety of passengers had degenerated to an unacceptable level.”
READ: Route B97 closed for a further four months
He added, “The current closure period comes to an end on 25 September 2022. In consultation with the affected municipalities, we invested a considerable amount of time, funding and resources into mediation efforts prior to closing the route. Taxi operations on the B97 route were also the subject of an arbitration process.”
Arbitration process reaps success
Following an arbitration process, it was ruled that both CATA Boland Taxi Association and the Paarl Alliance Taxi Association (affiliated with CODETA) have legal rights to trade on the mentioned route.
READ: Western Cape authorities still working to find an amicable solution to reopen the B97 taxi route
More discussions followed with the provincial executive committee of the Western Cape Branch of SANTACO, the CATA and CODETA Regional Taxi Councils and the 2 affected primary taxi associations.
“I want to commend the industry leaders for their commitment to this peace process.
I am pleased that this agreement has been reached by the primary associations and CATA and CODETA regions in respect of minibus-taxi operations on route B97. Both
parties have agreed, to co-exist and to provide bi-directional services,” says Mitchell, with the B97-Taxi route expected to reopen soon.
Operating licences to be apportioned 50/50
The MEC also stressed, “In terms of the agreement, operating licences will be apportioned on an equal basis (50/50) between the 2 associations. This is commensurate to the demand for services as shown in the transportation plans for the area.”
READ: Alternative transport arrangements for commuters
With the B97-Taxi route reopening soon, this commitment will also be in the spotlight. “Both associations have committed to stop recruiting new members in excess of passenger demand. They will also desist from allowing illegal operators to trade on route B97.”
At the same time, the Drakenstein Municipal Council has resolved to support new operating licences in respect of route B97 to create a more equitable balance between demand and supply. We have agreed with the affected associations to start the application process.
The B97-Taxi route is reopening soon
The MEC says the route will remain closed until the regulatory process has been finalised. Details of the closure period will be shared in due course. At the same time, it should be noted that the replacement Golden Arrow bus service will continue to operate in parallel to the taxi service. This is post the re-opening of the route until all bus tickets/clip-cards have expired.
