A dispute between taxi associations has escalated in the Atlantis area following the Cape Organisation for the Democratic Taxi Association (CODETA) launching its services in the area on Saturday, August 24. This move directly challenges the Witsand Taxi Association, which is affiliated with the Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (CATA), currently operating on that route.
The conflict has raised significant concerns within the industry. A driver from CATA told Ezitshisayo that what CODETA was doing is not good and they will not be intimidated. “CODETA cannot impose themselves on this route without an agreement. We will defend our territory, and there are serious risks of violence,” said the driver.
CODETA spokesman Makhosandile Tumana mentioned that they had a meeting at Santaco offices but CATA leadership didnt show up. The meeting was postponed because key CATA leaders were absent. “We attempted to discuss the issue on Tuesday, but we will need to reschedule. For now, we have no further comments about this matter,” Tumana said.
On the other hand, CATA spokesman Nkululeko Sityebi criticized CODETA’s move, stating that it was provocative. “You cannot just start operating in an area where another association already has a license. It’s like building a house on top of another house,” he said.
In response to the rising tensions, the City of Cape Town has increased law enforcement presence in the area. Jean-Pierre Smith, the Mayco member for Safety and Security, stated: “We are deploying additional resources alongside SAPS to manage the situation. Public transport disputes often lead to violence, and we are taking steps to prevent it.”
Smith also also said that several taxis were impounded for operating without proper permits. Despite these measures, the situation remains tense, and law enforcement will continue to monitor the area closely, stated Smith.
Commuters, like Melikhaya Nethe from Witsand, have expressed concern for their safety. “When these groups fight, it’s not just the drivers who get hurt. We are caught in the crossfire, and our children are at risk too,” Nethe said.
Another commuter Noloyiso Mphetshwa said she is worried that taxis may be disrupted. “We will struggle to go to work,” she said.
As tensions continue, both the authorities and the public hope for a resolution that avoids further violence and disruption.