Western Cape Minister of Mobility, Isaac Sileku, says he will not issue another closure notice for taxi routes between Khayelitsha, Mfuleni, and Somerset West.

This follows the expiry of the 30-day interdict on Saturday, which temporarily halted operations amid violence and fatalities linked to tensions in the taxi industry.

Last Thursday, Sileku published a notice of intent  (Mobility Minister Moves to Extend Taxi Route Closures) to extend the route closure and related measures, but following representations by taxi associations, the MEC confirmed on Friday night that he will not issue a second closure notice.

Sileku confirmed that taxi services have since resumed as normal, with operators now working in line with their approved operating licenses.

“Associations have resumed operations in line with their operating licenses. We have seen the impact of the extraordinary measures, which resulted in the restoration of peace and calm in the industry.”

He urged taxi associations to maintain stability and cooperation, not only with government but also with the commuters who rely on a safe and dignified transport system.

“Our law enforcement agencies will continue to monitor the situation on the ground to ensure the safety of the broader public.”

The 30-day route closure was introduced last month following violent clashes between taxi associations, which left several people dead and disrupted transport services across affected areas.