NTA urges drivers to prioritise roadworthiness of vehicles

The National Taxi Alliance (NTA) has urged its members to ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy as they set out to transport commuters over the Easter weekend.

Thousands of commuters, including pilgrims and holiday makers have started making their way to various destinations.

NTA Spokesperson Theo Malele says they are expecting high passenger volumes.

“This has been a very, very busy time, but we anticipate the volumes of people coming through. So, we prepared a package through our National Safety Programme as the National Taxi Alliance to ensure that we communicate the do’s and dont’s on the side of the owners of the taxis and the drivers. So, the package for the owners is that they have to ensure that the vehicles are fit for purpose as they’ll be taking these long journeys.”

The alliance has also urged taxi operators to take regular breaks, at least every 200 kilometres, to help prevent fatigue-related accidents.

The alliance says the petrol increase will hit hard on their margins that are already under pressure.

Fuel prices have risen sharply by R3,06 per litre, while diesel has increased even more significantly, by R7,37 and R7,51 per litre.

Malele says he is hoping for a zero-accident mark during this period.

“The driver should actually do the inspection before leaving. They have to check on their vehicle state, the tyres, the spare wheel – ensure that there is enough thread on the tyres.”

Malele elaborates in the report below: 

-Report by Refilwe Mekoa, additional reporting by Puseletso Mokoena