Taxi operators in Xhora, near Mthatha in the Eastern Cape, are frustrated with the local municipality over the incomplete construction of a multi-million rand taxi rank. The construction began in 2011, but the contractor abandoned the site in 2014/15 due to a payment dispute with Mbhashe Local Municipality. The rank lacks water, electricity, working toilets, and stalls for vendors, as expected. The zinc roofing and awning had to be donated by a local businessman. The project was funded by the national Department of Transport and awarded a tender of R4.9-million to Balintulo Trading / Bright Idea Projects, with R1.3-million spent.
Balintulo Trading's contract was terminated due to non-performance, and the contractor took the municipality to court. The Covid lockdown and the unfinished project have delayed the project. Uncedo Taxi Association secretary Yanga Dlali claims that the unfinished taxi rank is dark in winter, making it vulnerable to criminals. The rank is also used by long-distance taxis, and food vendors use cardboard sheets to protect their gas stoves from the wind. Mbhashe Local Municipality spokesperson Nomakhulu Dingane denied committing to providing stalls for vendors.
Balintulo Trading Director Sabelo Balintulo confirmed that its contract was terminated unexpectedly in 2014/15 and had pursued an arbitration process. However, the outcome did not align with expectations, prompting Balintulo to pursue review proceedings. The delay in resolving is not due to any actions or shortcomings on their part but rather the municipality.
