Western Cape taxi routes reopened following 30-day closure

Western Cape Mobility Minister, Isaac Sileku says safety personnel will be assigned to monitor reopened taxi routes

Western Cape Mobility Minister, Isaac Sileku says after careful consideration of the representations received, a second closure taxi routes notice will not be issued.

The routes were shut down for 30 days last month, following widespread gun violence in which at least 8 people were killed. He says associations may resume operations from today in line with their current operating licenses.

[WATCH]
The Western Cape Department of Mobility has indicated that the initial 30-day shutdown of taxi routes between Somerset West, Mfuleni, and Strand might be extended, citing a lack of commitment from the taxi associations involved.#taxiviolence pic.twitter.com/JIuqyvmWRv

— SABC News (@SABCNews) October 16, 2025

RELATED VIDEO | WC taxi routes’ shutdown from 17th September 2025

Sileku says law enforcement will continue monitoring the situation closely to ensure the safety of commuters and the broader public.

‘This was not an easy decision but one taken to protect the rights and needs of the commuters and as part of our ongoing efforts to reach a sustainable and peaceful solution with the 2 associations and all affected parties,” says Sileku.

RELATED VIDEO | Cape Town taxi routes closed due to ongoing violence

He calls on both associations to demonstrate the same level of commitment not only to government but to the people of this province who depend on a safe, reliable and dignified public transport system.

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Western Cape Minister of Mobility Isaac Sileku has announced the closure of six taxi routes, effective today, due to escalating violence between Taxi Associations. pic.twitter.com/mObTmNJ8EX

— SABC News (@SABCNews) September 17, 2025