Cape town: The Western Cape Provincial Government has announced the closure of several taxi routes within the Cape Town metropolitan area for a period of 30 days due to ongoing violence in the industry. The closures, effective from Wednesday, 17 September 2025, are executed under Section 91 of the National Land Transport Act (2009), focusing on areas such as Mfuleni, Somerset West, Khayelitsha, Nomzamo, and Lwandle.
According to South African Government News Agency, this measure aims to prevent further violence, ensure commuter safety, and restore stability. The provincial department emphasized that while taxi ranks and roads will remain open, only the routes directly associated with the ongoing instability will be suspended.
To maintain mobility for residents, the provincial government announced that Golden Arrow Bus Services (GABS) and Metrorail will provide alternative transport options during this period. Additionally, temporary permits may be issued to substitute operators where necessary.
Enforcement of these extraordinary measures will be supported by the South African Police Service (SAPS), the City of Cape Town law enforcement, and provincial traffic officers. The province has cautioned operators against contravening the notice, warning of fines up to R5,000 or imprisonment for up to six months for violations.
Western Cape Mobility MEC Isaac Sileku acknowledged the severity of the decision, stating, “This was not an easy decision, but it is one that had to be taken to protect the lives of commuters and residents. The safety of our communities is our top priority.” He added that while extraordinary measures are in place, ongoing engagement with the Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (CATA) and Cape Organisation for the Democratic Taxi Association (CODETA) will continue to seek a sustainable resolution and long-term peace in the mini-bus taxi industry.
The specific routes affected by the 30-day closure include:
– 611 Khayelitsha – Somerset West
– 43 Lwandle – Khayelitsha
– M18 Mfuleni – Somerset West
– X19 Nomzamo – Mfuleni
– AA20 Khayelitsha – Somerset West CBD via Vergelegen Medical Clinic
– AA21 Khayelitsha – Sitari Village Mall
– R96 Khayelitsha – Somerset West via Somerset Mall
– R97 Khayelitsha – Waterstone Mall – Somerset West
– YEX63 Mfuleni – Somerset West
– YEX64 Mfuleni – Strand via Somerset West
Additionally, specific lanes in taxi ranks will also be closed, including:
– Lane 1 – Khayelitsha (Nonkqubela and Makhaza)
– Lane 1 – Mfuleni (new and old facilities)
– Lane 2 – Somerset West Interchange
– Lane 4 – Nomzamo taxi rank
– Lane 4 – Lwandle taxi rank
“The Western Cape Mobility Department remains committed to open dialogue with all stakeholders to secure a peaceful and sustainable resolution,” the statement concluded.