Higher fuel price irks taxi industry; but no fare hikes – for now

THE TAXI industry has expressed its frustrations about the fuel hike which comes into effect today.

The price of petrol will go up by 91 cents a litre while diesel will be between 54 cents and 55 cents per litre more expensive. Paraffin will cost 50 cents per litre more.

The SA National Taxi Council (Santaco) Gauteng spokesperson Midday Mali said the petrol price increase would affect the industry negatively, however, fare increases cannot be expected as yet.

“We are struggling as it is and we try to consider those who are unemployed who make use of our services, therefore, we keep our rates as reasonable as possible. The fuel increase will increase the products of our vehicles resulting in a high expenditure for maintenance alone,” Mali said.

Santaco is expected to sit with its provincial offices and regional leaders to look into issues that could lead to a “possible” increase in taxi fares.

Mali said that in the past fuel increases saw the price of taxi fares increasing but at this stage, they are “reluctant” to increase and a decision would be made once provinces conclude the submission.

“Many are struggling and the economy is low at this stage. We are affected at home because of the price increase of food at this stage.

“An increase in taxi fare prices would mean commuters are challenged at all levels,” Mali said.

Kamohelo Moloi, the chief executive of Kitta Transport Training Academy operating in Eersterust in Pretoria, said the academy owned 12 taxis and provided training to potential taxi drivers.

Moloi said the academy would look into solutions around the fuel increase just as they have since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Once all fails we will resort to a price increase. But we remain hopeful that we will operate with normal rates despite the fuel increase,” he said.

The AA’s spokesperson Layton Beard said the spike in the fuel price was the highest was a concern to many.

“The 91 cent increase is a high cause for concern. We have seen that taxes added has played a significant role in the increase.

“The exchange rate and the international petroleum product price increase have contributed to the current petrol hike.

“Every year we speak about the general fuel levy and the Road Accident Fund percentage that contribute to fuel price increases every year. We highlight this to the government to assist in dealing more effectively with the fuel price,” Beard said.