Durban taxi operators hand memorandum to Toyota SA

A representative from the car manufacturer was on hand to receive the document at the manufacturing plant in Prospecton - south of Durban.

"We'll be going through this memorandum and as always, you being thr key partners of Toyota, we will engage with you further," he said. 

Operators are unhappy about what they say is the high cost of Toyota Quantum minibuses widely used in the industry.

ALSO READ: Durban taxi strike out of hand: Santaco

Santaco's Boy Zondi says it's affecting the livelihoods of those employed in the industry.

"We've been ripped off as a taxi industry and we are saying that the price being charged to the taxi industry by the banks and manufacturers is ridiculous. That's our main demand. We're saying the premiums being paid currently is not taking the taxi industry anywhere," he said.

The large number of slow-moving taxis parked along the vicinity of Gate 2 entrance a few metres away from the main entrance - blocking off any traffic flow. 

There was a momentary dispute between Santaco members and SAPS members as taxi operators wanted to enter the property using the taxis but police argued they would have to continue on foot. 

A decision was then taken to release staff members who had been working the night shift. 

ALSO READ: Durban taxi strike out of hand: Santaco

The visibly nervous staff were heckled by taxi operators who yelled at them saying they are driving cars paid for by taxi purchases. 

 eThekwini metro police spokesperson, Sibonelo Mchunu says traffic is flowing now on most routes.

Earlier, the taxi blockade by striking drivers affected the movement of emergency services and prevented commuters from making their way to work. 

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