The Inkatha Freedom Party calls on all taxi owners to reduce road carnages and overloading by not imposing a so called target system especially during peak season.
“As the Easter weekend approaches taxi ranks will be busy with people going to different parts of the country and we are very concerned about the so called target system that is imposed on taxi drivers by taxi owners which is a major contributor to overloading and speeding. The target system needs to be scrapped because it puts the lives of commuters at risk. Drivers work under pressure with some having to meet a stipulated target of a certain amount. Drivers who are under pressure to meet targets speed and drive recklessly as they fear losing their jobs if they cannot bring in the amount of money imposed by the owner,” said IFP National Chairperson, Mr Blessed Gwala MPL.
“I want to appeal to vehicle owners that whilst they prioritise profits they must also consider the safety of passengers and other road users. When they transport our people they must ensure that their drivers load the taxis according to the legal limit of that vehicle. Government is trying its best to warn the people about the dangers of overloading but they do not seem to take heed. We call on our traffic officers to be tough on reckless drivers.
“We are also concerned when passengers support overloading. Some passengers often rally behind taxi drivers to silence traffic officers fighting against overloading. The moment a traffic officer stops an overloaded vehicle, you start hearing passengers asking the officer to back off saying the driver should be left to make money, some even hurl insults at our officers who are trying to enforce the law. This is unacceptable and passengers must consider their own safety by letting traffic officers to do their jobs,” added Mr Gwala.
“We further urge those who will be attending church services in different parts of the country to ensure that they use road worthy vehicles including buses. Bus owners must also ensure that their buses are roadworthy and their drivers are sober in order to avoid unnecessary road accidents. People hiring buses and taxis must request an updated roadworthy certificate before they make payments for their transport,” concluded Mr Gwala.
The IFP would like to wish all citizens and visitors to our country a safe and enjoyable Easter holiday.
Issued by:
Mr Blessed Gwala
IFP National Chairperson
078 290 5842
