By: Zethu Gweva
It is alleged that public transport fare has increased during the crucial time of the Covid-19 pandemic outbreak.
According to a source from Embekweni who did not want to be mentioned by name, taxi prices from East London to Mdantsane have increased from R16 to R30 and from Mdantsane units to Qumza highway were R12 and now they R25.
“We were travelling from Embekweni to Spar in Golden highway and the taxi driver told us to pay him R25 each since they are supposed to carry a load less than the seats in the car,” she said.
Another source expressed that taxi drivers are taking advantage of the elderly as they are desperate to get groceries during the lockdown.
“They are taking advantage of old people who are not well informed about such matters. Nothing about public transport price increase was announced,” he said.
Eastern Cape Department of Transport Spokesperson Unathi Binqose said taxi drivers are exploiting the situation.
He added that this is a national problem as it is not unique to the Eastern Cape.
“This is the same conduct as the people who inflate the goods because they see the high demand for the goods. We condemn this. If taxi drivers see a need to increase their prices they should consult with their customers before making the price increase,” said Binqose.
Binqose expressed that as much the country is facing the toughest of times, it is tough for both the taxi industry and the commuters and they are calling for fairness.
“We are sure they don’t want to chase away their customers and we urge them to treat them with respect and not increase the prices without consulting their clientele,” he said.