The DA in Mangaung will write to the municipal manager to urgently repair the potholes plaguing the taxi routes in Botshabelo.
After an oversight visit by the DA with the Botshabelo Taxi Association to identify impassable taxi routes in the area, the taxi operators expressed potholes and impassable roads as their major plight to their business. Taxis play a pivotal role in public transportation in Botshabelo in the Free State.
Potholes significantly impact taxis. Their tyres are damaged, the suspension becomes faulty, and the axles are damaged.
Consistent exposure to pothole-ridden roads accelerates vehicle wear and tear and shortens taxis’ lifespans. This forces taxi owners to replace vehicles sooner than expected, increasing financial strain on an industry that often operates on tight budgets.
Potholes pose safety risks by increasing the likelihood of accidents. Drivers navigating uneven roads may lose control, leading to collisions or sudden stops that endanger passengers. Additionally, abrupt swerving to avoid potholes can result in accidents with other vehicles, further threatening road safety.
Additionally, this has enormous impact on other residents who have to use their private vehicles to travel to work and schools, causing damage to their vehicles.
We call on the municipality to address road infrastructure issues to ensure the sustainability of taxi services and support the livelihoods of those who depend on them.
Invest in proper road maintenance to alleviate these challenges and enhance the reliability of taxi transportation