By Sbongile Sokela
After five years of waiting, the Bluegum Taxi Rank in Duduza has finally opened. While many people are celebrating this new development, some residents are unhappy about how the opening was handled.
The new taxi rank was officially opened by MMC for Roads and Transport, Andile Mngwevu. He said the facility will make it easier and safer for people to travel. “We had many challenges, but I’m proud to finally open this rank. We need peace and teamwork from now on,” Mngwevu said during the ceremony.
The taxi rank was meant to open years ago, but disagreements between the Nigel and Brakpan taxi associations caused major delays. Ward 87 Councillor Bongani Hlophe said, “It’s been a long wait. This taxi rank will be helpful, especially when it rains. People now have a safe place to wait for taxis.”
However, not everyone is pleased. Johannes Mabuza, a local resident, said the community was not told about the opening. “We’re shocked. No one informed us. It feels like they only care about money. Our roads are bad, our kids do not have jobs, and drugs are ruining our area,” he said.
Sello Mabe, chairperson of the Nigel Taxi Association, welcomed the new taxi rank and said they plan to work with nearby ranks. “We don’t want violence in Duduza. We want support from the MMC and help in removing unsafe taxis from the road,” he said.
The taxi rank is not just for transportation. It includes stalls for small businesses and space for a car wash, which could help create jobs for locals.
Mngwevu ended by asking the community to look after the new rank. “This taxi rank belongs to the people of Duduza. Let’s protect it and keep it in good condition,” he said.
