Roads closed, commuters stranded in KZN taxi strike
Hundreds of taxi operators in KwaZulu Natal have downed keys.
The strikers are making their way to Toyota's Prospecton plant - south of Durban - this morning for a protest march.
Some people heading to the area say they've been unable to get to work. This Glen Anil resident says he heard about the traffic diversions from a colleague.
"I leave at about 4h50 then I get onto the N2. There weren't as many taxis - I did notice. The guy from work on standby was called to work. He was diverted at Prospecton. Then I decided at the Queensburgh turn-off to do a U-turn and come back home," he said.
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In Umlazi, south of Durban, commuters have been stranded and waiting for taxis. Although the taxis can be seen - they are not operational.
The SA National Taxi Council says it's received permission to hold a protest march outside the plant. It's told ECR Newswatch the operators are protesting against high vehicle manufacturing costs which they say are killing business.
These are the roads affected -
- Durban CBD: Warwick Avenue and West Street, Brooke and Smith Street. Please use alternative routes.
- N2 in both directions near Umgeni on and off-ramps.
- N2 Northbound before Tongaat Toll.
- Jan Smuts Highway near Westridge Stadium.
- Umbilo and Francois Road.
- Sydney and Moore Road.
- N3: Durban-bound, near the Richmond Road off-ramp.
- N2 near Isipingo and Prospecton - including Joyner Road.
Below are scenes of the taxi strike in Umlazi, Z section.
Listen to the full bulletin below.