Bus drivers operating in Ngcobo in the Eastern Cape say they remain concerned about their safety amid sporadic attacks allegedly linked to tensions between long-distance bus operators and the local taxi industry.
The R61 between Cofimvaba and Ngcobo has for years been considered a high-risk route for long-distance bus operators.
Intercape is now seeking to continue operating on the route, saying its buses should be allowed to pick up and drop off passengers at designated points, provided they have valid operating permits.
Intercape CEO Johann Ferreira says the company has introduced additional measures to protect both passengers and drivers.
“If you travel with Intercape between Cape Town and Ngcobo, or to other provinces, you can only board and alight at the police station, in the marked bays kept open for our coaches,” Ferreira said.
He says the company’s position is supported by the law and previous court rulings.
The dispute forms part of a long-running conflict between the taxi industry and long-distance bus operators in the area.
The Eastern Cape High Court in Mthatha has ordered the Dr AB Xuma Local Municipality to implement measures to improve the safety of bus drivers.
However, the ruling has been met with resistance from some taxi operators, who say the industry is being unfairly portrayed in the dispute.
Local taxi boss Luthando Thupha says operators do not oppose Intercape’s presence in the area but want what he describes as a fair approach.
“We are not saying that we don't want Intercape, but all we want is fairness. They claim that they fear being killed; we are not capable of that, as we don't see any motive for killing them,” Thupha said.
He says tensions increased after Intercape began operating on roads traditionally used by the local taxi industry.
Dr AB Xuma Mayor Siyabulela Zangqa says disputes must be resolved through lawful channels and rejects suggestions that local authorities are powerless to address conflict or illegal activity.
Authorities say they will continue working with both industries in an effort to improve relations and ensure the safety of public transport operators and passengers.