Taxi owners warned against driver targets
Inkatha Freedom Party has issued a call on taxi owners to help reduce road accidents
THE Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) has issued a call on taxi owners to help reduce road accidents by not imposing the target system on drivers during this Easter.
IFP National Chairperson, Blessed Gwala warned: ‘As the Easter weekend approaches taxi ranks will be busy with people going to different parts of the country, and we are concerned about the target system imposed on taxi drivers by owners, which is a major contributor to overloading and speeding.
‘The system needs to be scrapped because it puts the lives of commuters at risk. Drivers work under pressure as they have to meet the stipulated daily targets.
‘They then drive at high speeds and drive recklessly, fearing to lose their jobs for failure to bring in the amount of money imposed by the owner.
‘I want to appeal to taxi owners that whilst prioritising profits, they must also consider the safety of passengers and other road users,’ said Gwala.
‘When transporting people they must ensure their drivers load taxis according to the legal limit of the specific vehicle. Government is trying its best to warn against the dangers of overloading, to no avail. We call on our traffic officers to be tough on reckless drivers.
‘We are also concerned about those passengers who condone overloading.
‘Some passengers often rally behind taxi drivers to silence traffic officers fighting against overloading- with some even hurling insults at officers for trying to enforce the law.
‘This is unacceptable, and passengers must consider their own safety by allowing the traffic officers to do their jobs,’ Gwala added.
‘We further urge those who will be attending church services in different parts of the country to ensure they use roadworthy vehicles, including the buses.
‘Bus owners must also ensure their buses are roadworthy and their drivers are sober in order to avoid unnecessary road accidents. People hiring buses and taxis must request an updated roadworthy certificate before making payments,’ concluded Gwala.
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