Johannesburg: Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport Kedibone Diale-Tlabela has strongly condemned reports of alleged intimidation and coercion of commuters and private vehicle owners by some public transport operators. 'Any form of bullying or coercion on our roads is unacceptable. Our officers are actively intervening to protect the public and uphold peace. Commuters' constitutional right to choose their preferred mode of transport is fully protected,' the MEC said on Thursday.

According to South African Government News Agency, in January 2025, the Department of Roads and Transport established the Public Transport Crisis Committee. Chaired by the MEC, the committee convenes on Fridays to coordinate with all stakeholders in the taxi, bus, e-hailing, and scholar transport sectors. 'We are bringing all industry stakeholders under one roof to ensure that operations comply with the law and that commuters are treated fairly,' the MEC said.

The MEC has also cautioned public transport users against using unregistered e-hailing operations and encouraged commuters to use recognised, legal, and known platforms. 'Law enforcement has been deployed in areas where illegal practices have been reported. Gauteng residents deserve a safe, reliable, and lawful transport system. We are committed to ensuring that every commuter can travel without any form of fear or intimidation,' Diale-Tlabela stated.

The department's Gauteng Transport Inspectorate (GTI) continues to work on restoring law and order on the province's public roads. This week, the GTI was able to impound over 16 vehicles for various offences, including illegal operations and vehicle unroadworthiness. Enforcement operations, including vehicle impoundment, are conducted in line with the National Land Transport Act.

'We will not allow lawlessness, illegal operations, and unroadworthy vehicles to put commuters' lives at risk. Our law enforcement teams are on the ground to ensure peace, enforce compliance, and lawful operations at all times. The safety and rights of our commuters are non-negotiable,' Diale-Tlabela asserted.