The inability of the eThekwini Municipality to find common ground with taxi owners and other local businesses within the area came to a head yesterday when dozens of taxis blocked access in and out of Umhlanga Rocks.
The Democratic Alliance once again stepped up to fill the glaringly obvious void left by a missing and seemingly uncaring municipality. Yesterday, the DA that took decisive action by collaborating with law enforcement and various stakeholders to quell a potentially explosive situation.
The ongoing challenges in Umhlanga Rocks, exacerbated by the resumption of the Oceans Development project, have raised concerns for residents and local businesses alike. The DA has consistently advocated for improved public transport facilities within the Umhlanga Rocks precinct or an alternative arrangement outside of the precinct. Regrettably, city officials have chosen evasion over engagement, obscuring these issues with smoke and mirrors.
Taxis serve as a lifeline to Umhlanga’s businesses, and their actions reflect the frustration and desperation felt by both operators, business owners and residents. The DA condemns the eThekwini Municipality’s inaction and its failure to address these pressing concerns.
The DA urges senior city officials to attend the urgent meeting scheduled this morning, 20 September 2023, seeking a collaborative way forward. A whole-of-society approach, characterized by clear and transparent communication with all stakeholder, is essential to resolve this crisis.
The DA remains committed to representing the interest of all stakeholders of Umhlanga Rocks and the broader eThekwini community. We call upon the municipality to acknowledge and address the long-standing issues surrounding public transport and the Oceans Development. The time for evasion has passed; concrete actions are needed to serve the people.
We urge the eThekwini Municipality to engage in meaningful dialogue with all parties involved and prioritize the well-being and safety of the community and we will continue to stand with residents and businesses, advocating for responsive and accountable local governance.