Passengers in Cape Town have asked the Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (Cata) to stop taxi drivers from using TikTok while driving.
Namhla Buqwana, a daily passenger, said taxi drivers must stop this dangerous habit.
“It puts our lives and other road users in danger because they can’t focus on driving while laughing at TikTok videos,” said Buqwana.
“We are afraid of taxi drivers, but one day we asked a driver to stop using his phone while driving. He said he has been driving for 10 years and that we can’t tell him what to do.”
Another passenger said his driver almost attacked someone who tried to record him. The driver’s behaviour nearly caused an accident.
“When he started using his phone, we all complained. He didn’t say anything, just looked in the mirror and continued,” the passenger said.
“One day we will get hurt because drivers are driving recklessly. You can’t be on TikTok, especially during peak hours when everyone is rushing to get to work or school. Driving needs full attention.”
Sinikelo Katele was shocked to see an Avanza driver using his phone.
“I travel in an Avanza and a Toyota Quantum to work, and sometimes the driver uses his phone. You can’t reason with them because they get angry easily. I’m glad other passengers have spoken up,” said Katele.
“It’s not only Quantum and Avanza drivers who use their phones, but they are the worst. They need to stop this.”
Nkululeko Sityebi, Cata spokesperson, admitted that there was a problem.
“Using a phone while driving is also damaging vehicles. We know we must stop this. We promise to do our best to stop it,” said Sityebi.
