STELLALANDER-VRYBURG: Members of the Naledi Municipality Taxi Association (NAMTA) have officially handed a memorandum of grievances to Municipal Manager Modisenyane Segopo, calling for immediate intervention to address illegal taxi operations in the area.
The memorandum, presented last week, outlines the challenges faced by legal taxi operators due to the presence of unregulated competitors, which NAMTA says is undermining their livelihoods. NAMTA’s memorandum highlights the key concerns as following:
Illegal Taxi Operations: Unregulated taxis are reportedly causing financial strain on legal operators, leading to repossessions of vehicles and loss of income.
Law Enforcement Challenges: NAMTA is seeking the deployment of at least 12 experienced patrol officers to curb illegal activities. They also noted the inadequate security at impound facilities, requesting improvements to ensure effective operations.
Urgency due to Festive Season: With the holiday period approaching, NAMTA warned of the heightened risks, including potential escalation into violence, substance abuse, and community safety concerns if the situation remains unresolved. Proposed Solutions
NAMTA offered proposed requests to the municipality that include: Immediate deployment of patrol officers, particularly experienced personnel. Upgraded infrastructure and security measures at law enforcement facilities. Collaborative efforts between the municipality and the association to ensure long-term sustainability of the taxi industry. NAMTA emphasized the importance of addressing these issues promptly to avoid further disruption during the festive season. They warned that continued inaction could lead to increased frustration among operators and potential violence, impacting the local economy and community well-being. Municipal Manager Modisenyane Segopo has acknowledged receipt of the memorandum. Segapo addressed the concerned taxi operators after receiving the memorandum and promised that the feedback of the memorandum will be visible in the actions that will be displayed by authorities to address the concerns. Taxi operators play a critical role in Vryburg’s public transport system, and NAMTA’s plea underscores the broader implications of the situation. Beyond the economic strain on operators, unresolved illegal activities could affect commuter safety and disrupt local transport services. NAMTA reiterated their commitment to collaborating with the municipality to find a sustainable solution for all stakeholders involved.
