Transport Minister, Fikile Mbalula says the reality is that the government does not have any more funds available to offer the taxi industry.
Mbalula briefed the media following reports of a planned taxi shutdown in Gauteng on Monday.
The taxi association is opposing the government’s R1.135-billion relief package, claiming that it is not enough.
“Increasing the amount that is available is simply not an option on the table. I wish to repeat, the door is still open for creative ideas to maximise value for this limited benefit for all operators in the industry,” he said.
Mbalula says a strike will only worsen the devastation felt by the industry.
“That is why this shutdown is counter-productive and is not good for Santaco, it’s not good for the taxi industry and it is not good for any of us,” he added.
According to eNCA, SANTACO WC Chairperson, Nazeem Abdurahman, said there will be NO taxi fare increase in the Western Cape.
However, commuters in Gauteng have been left stranded on Monday as taxi bosses have called for a shutdown in the province.
