Cashless taxis to launch in Cape Town in June
SWIPE: Codeta regional assistant secretary, Mzwabantu Fayindlala
Image: siyavuya khaya
The Cape Organisation for the Democratic Taxi Association (Codeta) announced the introduction of a new cashless payment system.
Codeta chairperson, Nceba Enge, said the organisation will officially launch the system on June 1.
The new system will require commuters to use cards that will be scanned when entering taxis.
He said: “We are introducing a new cashless system in our taxi industry. Our customers will now be using cards, which they will scan when getting into our vans.
“By doing so, we are also trying to protect them in the morning when they are going to work and when they are coming back home.”
Enge said cameras would also be installed inside taxis as part of the new system to help improve safety and accountability within the industry.
He acknowledged that transitioning to the new technology may present challenges during the initial stages of implementation.
Some commuters have welcomed the introduction of the system, although concerns remain about how it will work in practice.
Taxi commuter Esethu Saliwa said this was a positive step as similar systems were already being used in other forms of public transport.
She, however, added: “These systems will have challenges, and sometimes the devices might not scan. Taxi drivers should exercise caution and patience with commuters.”
Another commuter, Ayanda Maboyana, said: “I feel that there will be more challenges and I prefer the cash payment method.”