Western Cape Mobility MEC Isaac Sileku has announced the temporary closure of several major taxi routes in response to escalating violence in the industry that has claimed multiple lives.

Following a decision by the provincial Cabinet, Section 91 of the National Land Transport Act will be invoked to impose extraordinary measures from Wednesday, 17 September.

The restrictions will last 30 days and affect routes linking Khayelitsha, Mfuleni, Nomzamo, Lwandle, and Somerset West, as well as specified lanes at key taxi ranks in those areas.

“This has been an exceptionally difficult decision. We are acutely aware that these routes serve thousands of residents who depend on them daily. However, given the escalating violence, the tragic and unnecessary loss of life, and the failure of previous interventions to restore calm, these extraordinary measures are necessary,” said Sileku.

Recent weeks have seen violent clashes resulting in the deaths of at least six people between 23 and 26 August, as well as the fatal shooting of an off-duty police officer and taxi operator on 4 September.

Sileku said the safety of commuters remains the Western Cape Government’s top priority. To mitigate the impact, Golden Arrow Bus Services and Metrorail will increase capacity to assist commuters and learners, particularly during the crucial exam period.

Law enforcement agencies, including SAPS, the City of Cape Town’s enforcement units, and Provincial Traffic, will enforce the closures. “Anyone who contravenes the notice will face the full force of the law,” Sileku warned.

The Minister urged rival taxi associations CATA and CODETA to prioritise commuter safety and use this period to negotiate a peaceful resolution.

“Violence will never deliver the results you seek. Only through negotiation and agreement can this industry find lasting stability,” he said.

The closures, Sileku stressed, are intended to “save lives, restore calm, and create space for a long-term resolution.”

The following taxi routes will be closed for a period of 30 days:

• Route M18: Mfuleni – Somerset West
• Route 43: Lwandle – Khayelitsha via Somerset West
• Route 611: Khayelitsha – Somerset West
• Route X19: Nomzamo – Mfuleni
• Route AA20: Khayelitsha – Somerset West via Vergelegen
• Route R96: Khayelitsha – Somerset West via Somerset Mall
• Route AA21: Khayelitsha – Sitari Village Mall (drop-off)
• Route R97: Khayelitsha – Somerset West (drop-off only)
• Route YEX63: Mfuleni – Somerset West (drop-off only)
• Route YEX64: Mfuleni – Somerset West (drop-off only)

Specified lanes at taxi ranks in Khayelitsha, Makhaza, Mfuleni, Somerset West, Nomzamo and Lwandle will also be closed.