KwaZulu-Natal mayor Zandile Gumede recently unveiled the newly-constructed Cartwright taxi rank which she says will restore the dignity of commuters.

The R13 million taxi rank boasts a modern design with dedicated ablution facilities for people with disabilities, baby changing facilities and vehicle washing bays stalls which will house small business vendors.  In addition the entire rank is secured by fencing with lockable sliding gates and also features tarred floors.

Speaking at the official opening, the Mayor called on operators and commuters to take ownership of the multi-million rand facility and take care of it.

“Rank users and the public at large need to safeguard this rank and all other municipal public facilities from vandalism,”she said.

The mayor noted that the city often spends billions to fix vandalised facilities hinders its ability to invest and provide new and improved infrastructure.

Job creation and economic empowerment

Over R600 000 was spent on sub-contractors during the construction of the project to ensure SMME development and local economic development. This was in line with the principles of radical economic transformation according to the city.

Job opportunities were also created for local people to ensure local economic empowerment and job creation.