Download PDFOn 28 August 2025, an announcement of a taxi strike circulated on social media, catching many residents off guard. Taxis stopped operating, and despite e-hailing services being available, the prices were high due to high demand. Some residents who had already left for work struggled to return home, with some forced to walk long distances.
In a video circulating on social media, SANTACO (Ekurhuleni) stated that the intention behind the strike was to make people feel the same pain that taxi operators are experiencing due to their vehicles being impounded. Research reveals that the impounded taxis were deemed road-unworthy, and some lacked permits. SANTACO (Ekurhuleni) demands a total shutdown in Gauteng until they receive answers from the Minister of Transportation and the President.
On August 29, the strike’s second day, most residents were unable to make it to work, and schools were shut down as many educators rely on public transportation. Transportation for learners around Benoni was halted, and the Preliminary Exam season for high school students was severely disrupted.
An educator from Etwatwa expressed concern about the impact on the community, particularly working residents. “I couldn’t report to work due to the strike,” the educator said. “Even though e-hailing was an option, I didn’t find it fair to pay R100 for a trip that usually costs R33. The lack of prior notice or communication about the strike is frustrating. As a teacher, I had planned a revision session for my Grade 12 learners, but unfortunately, some of them won’t be able to attend due to transportation challenges.” The educator added that the taxi industry seems to be “proving a point” and that denying people transportation is inhumane, especially considering their reliance on it.
The strike has caused significant disruptions, and residents are calling for a resolution to the issue. Zinhle Dlamini (16), a learner who uses transport on a daily basis, expressed her concerns with the ongoing strike, saying, “This system seems to be failing us because there’s always something or the other.” She later concluded that she believes public transportation should be considerate and not take advantage of commuters, as they’re both dependent on each other.
Taxis were back in operation later on the 29th; however, commuters still find this matter very concerning and believe action should be taken to ensure proper operational public transportation.
This article was submitted on 09 September 2025. You may republish this article, so long as you credit the authors and Karibu! Online (www.Karibu.org.za), and do not change the text. Please include a link back to the original article.
