Eastern Cape Transport MEC, Weziwe Tikana, has announced the relaxation of restrictions imposed on taxi operators in the OR Tambo District Municipality.
Last month Police Minister, Bheki Cele and MEC Tikana, announced the closure of routes and ranks affected by taxi violence in the area following the deaths of more than sixty people in the area near Mthatha due to ongoing taxi violence
Eastern Cape Transport Department spokesperson, Khuselwa Rantjie, said the relaxation of the ban is to allow for the transportation of learners as schools are set to open next week.
She said all other operations remain suspended.
"Effectively it means that the routes are closed but we have just opened a window for the transportation of learners. Things will continue as they are at this stage," said Rantjie.
She said that the Department was still working on securing a transport service for the other commuters.
Rantjie also warned that taxi operators found "transporting anyone else you will be fined and your taxis will be impounded".
Meanwhile, Provincial Traffic deputy director Charles Bramwell reported that 36 minibus taxis were in fact impounded in the Mthatha area on Thursday for violating the ban.
He said eight owners paid fees of R4000 to release their vehicles while 28 were still under lock and key.
Bramwell also said that the operating permits of 15 vehicles were revoked.
