Several Western Cape taxi routes closed for 30 days: These are the affected areas

Selected taxi routes in the Western Cape will be closed for 30 days with the aim to curb violence and instability in the public transport sector.

The government will invoke Section 91 of the National Land Transport Act, a legal provision that allows a provincial government to impose extraordinary measures when violence, unrest, or instability in the public transport sector places lives at risk, from Wednesday, September 17, 2025. 

The South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) Western Cape expressed mixed emotions regarding the measure.

“We receive this decision with both sadness and understanding,” the organisation said.

“Sadness, because of the long-lasting impact it will have on the livelihoods of taxi operators and their families, as well as the businesses that sustain our industry. At the same time, we understand that the measure was taken in the interest of protecting lives, amid mounting violence and instability linked to our sector.”

The decision comes after a series of violent clashes, including six fatalities between August 23-26 and the shooting of an off-duty police officer and taxi operator on September 4.

Affected routes include M18 (Mfuleni – Somerset West), 43 (Lwandle – Khayelitsha via Somerset West), 611 (Khayelitsha – Somerset West), and several others, including specified lanes at ranks in Khayelitsha, Makhaza, Mfuleni, Somerset West, Nomzamo, and Lwandle.

Authorities, including SAPS, the City of Cape Town’s law enforcement, and Provincial Traffic, will enforce the closures with visible policing to ensure commuter safety. Alternative transport arrangements have been made through Golden Arrow Bus Services and Metrorail to help residents get to work and school.

Santaco Western Cape also issued an apology to commuters affected by the closures.

“We sincerely apologise to commuters who will be inconvenienced by these closures. As an industry that provides the backbone of daily mobility for thousands of people, we are deeply aware of the disruption this brings."

Despite the challenges, the council expressed hope for a resolution.

“Nevertheless, we remain optimistic and hopeful that through the ongoing dialogue with government and other stakeholders, peace and stability will soon be restored. Santaco Western Cape is committed to working tirelessly and in good faith towards a lasting solution.”

The organisation further appealed to the media and the public to support constructive engagement.

“We also appeal to members of the media and the broader public to allow the taxi industry the space to engage constructively, and to support initiatives that foster peace and collaboration,” santaco said.

The council concluded with a message of unity and optimism.

“Our firm belief is that, through collective effort, dialogue, and understanding, the Western Cape will overcome this period and restore both stability in the industry and trust among our commuters.”

The closures are part of broader efforts by the Western Cape Government to address escalating violence in the transport sector and ensure the safety of both commuters and taxi operators.

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