By: Zethu Gweva
Disgruntled commuters say the hike in public transport prices will put a strain on their finances as the prices are too expensive.
This is after the taxi industry announced that on the first of July prices will increase immensely as a result of the lockdown.
A commuter Lubabalo Mxoli from Sweetwaters in King William’s Town travels to Bhisho every day for work.
He said the hike in transport prices will affect him because he is an intern and supports a household.
“I already receive a small amount of income and can barely provide all necessary needs for us,” said Mxoli.
With the announced increase in prices, Santaco also ordered its drivers to ignore lockdown regulations and load 100% passengers.
Commuters said they are putting passenger’s lives at risk while demanding more money.
Mxoli expressed that it is not fair that they have to pay more money in a fully loaded in taxi which increases the risk of contracting the virus,
“This shows that our government does not care about us,” he said.
In-addition Vuyolwethu Sonaba from Mdantsane said her salary has been cut by 50% for the next three months.
She said, she has to live off her little income which mainly supports her travelling expenses.
“I have two children and schools are about to reopen, which means I have to pay for their school transport and my transport which will be very expensive,” said Sonaba.
An independent taxi driver Lwazi Sigcawo said he understands the commuters frustrations but they too need to support their families.
“My main source of income comes from driving people from Mndantsane to East London every day. I also have a son to take care of,” he said.