The Eastern Cape Department of Transport, Safety and Liaison has urged commuters to make plans for alternative transport tomorrow as an imminent strike by the taxi body, Santaco, looms large.
In a statement by the department this morning, it was indicated that the strike was “undesirable and was likely to have a negative impact on both government and the private sector.”
The department indicated that it had, on numerous occasions, met with the leadership of Santaco to discuss the challenges of fuel hikes with respect to scholar transport operators.
“We recognise that the cry is a legitimate one, however, due to budgetary constraints, our hands are tied.”
The department also indicated that allegations of arrogance and that she was not taking the taxi industry serious, as levelled against MEC Weziwe Tikana, were unfortunate and unfair.
“MEC Tikana is one of the most humble, fair and yet firm people around.”
Tikana had on several occasions held frank and cordial engagements with leaders in the taxi industry and acknowledged their role in the industry in terms of service delivery in the province.
