Minbus Taxi Drivers Strike

On 12 March 2010 minibus taxi drivers in Soweto, Johannesburg, began a strike to protest the implementation of the second phase of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system. The United Taxi Association Forum (UTAF) drivers reportedly blocked the entrance of the Noord Street Taxi rank in the Johannesburg city center to prevent drivers who are not observing the strike from transporting passengers. In response, the Gauteng province roads and transport department is urging commuters to use buses and trains to avoid transportation delays. So far, no violence has been reported. The drivers have suspended operations to protest the introduction of new BRT buses, their opposition to which, they claim, has prompted harassment from traffic officers and city officials over the roadworthiness of their vehicles. UTAF has also stated that the BRT system will phase out the minibus taxis. Some reports indicate that the drivers will return to work on 13-14 March, but will resume their strike on 15 March; other reports state that the strike will continue indefinitely from 12 March.