EMALAHLENI – The ongoing struggle between bolt drivers and taxi drivers in Emalahleni, continues to make headlines.
Bolt drivers reported that on Saturday, April 20, 2024, a significant incident occurred at Saveways Witbank shopping center, where five of them were allegedly compelled to pay a fee of R500 each by taxi drivers after their licenses were confiscated. This latest development sheds light on the evolving power dynamics between these two transportation sectors.
According to reliable sources, taxi drivers have imposed new regulations that restrict bolt drivers from picking up passengers inside the mall. Instead, they are only permitted to do so at McDonald’s and Spur stops.
This decision is based on the belief that taxi drivers are losing clients to their competitors due to the convenience and flexibility offered by ride-hailing services like bolt.
Speaking with the Highveld Chronicle, a bolt driver Zweli Nkosi said, “There was no document or memorandum of agreement that us, bolt drivers we will pay R500 a day if we are found picking up passengers inside the malls or shopping centers. Taxi drivers complain that we are taking their clients. The sad part is that the taxis they don’t get inside the shopping centre or mall, taxis only drop passengers off outside the shopping centre or mall.”
“Besides, we have not aimed at taking clients. It is within a passenger’s right that if they went to use a taxi or bolt as a transportation. We do not force passengers to bolt. We are bolt drivers because it is a job for us and we are trying to make a living.”
Lungile Ngomane, who is using bolt as a transport to work or mall said, “I love using a bolt, because I get picked up from my house to where I want to go. Even so, when I’m at the mall carrying plastic bags, bolt make it easy for me since it will pick me up in the spot where is close by and don’t have to wait that long.”
“A challenge using a taxi, is that it won’t leave unless it’s full. Taxi drivers they don’t care if it’s already dark or you’re getting late,” Nomonde Zungu said.
“I prefer a bolt for going to short and emergency trips, because I know that I will get there in time. For long distance trips, well I will consider a taxi because it’s cheaper.” she added.
The publication made an attempt to get a comment from the LOTA with regards the R500 fee need to be paid by bolt drivers, but failed.
