Chatsworth Minibus Association warns of overloading
Previously, the association has advised community members to avoid boarding vehicles, which were evidently overloaded, however now, despite their advice, taxis are still found to be filled to the brim, and beyond the legal Certificate of Fitness (COF), attributing to casualties in accidents as well as the increased spread of COVID-19.
In light of the easing of COVID-19 restrictions and the opening of schools, the Chatsworth Minibus Association asks passengers to pay heed to their advice as it is in the interests of all, who make use of minibuses.
Previously, the association has advised community members to avoid boarding vehicles, which were evidently overloaded, however now, despite their advice, taxis are still found to be filled to the brim, and beyond the legal Certificate of Fitness (COF), attributing to casualties in accidents as well as the increased spread of COVID-19.
Public relations officer of the association, BR Ismail, and company have therefore deliberated and thought long and hard for a solution to this serious issue.
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“We have resolved to take a zero-tolerance attitude towards overloading and short fares. It is unlawful to overload a minibus, which should carry a maximum of 15 passengers, and we believe that commuters are also contributing to this by not following a simple rule, in that you must not board a fully-seated taxi. When these vehicles leave the taxi rank, we ensure that the correct number of passengers are travelling in the taxi. Unfortunately, on the road, we cannot regulate this. If taxis are caught overloading, these vehicles will be immediately off-loaded and passengers will be left stranded on the street with the driver having to face disciplinary action,” he warned.
Another issue, which has arisen, is amounts paid to transport an individual, as drivers and conductors alike have come out against those, who pay far less than what is specified. As such, the association are strongly against this, as it robs those, who work hard for their jobs.
“To any inconveniences in your trips to Durban or a shopping centre, we insist that commuters do not board taxis that have fully seated passengers (15) and always pay the stipulated fares. We have implemented many rules and regulations. If adhered to, it would be safe for all,” he concluded.
