Taxi fare confusion as NDTA denies second increase

MIDDELBURG — Commuters in Nasaret, Rockdale, Extension 24 and surrounding areas in Middelburg were left confused after a notice circulated on Tuesday, 12 May 2026, claiming taxi fares to the CBD had increased. This comes a week after the Nasaret and District Taxi Association (NDTA) confirmed an official fare of R18.

The conflicting information sparked frustration among taxi users, with residents questioning whether fares had been increased twice within less than a month.

“I got confused because I had believed that it’s now R20 from Extension 24 to town,” said Nelisiwe Sibande, a commuter from Extension 24, who said she only realised there was no increase when a driver returned R2 change.

“I don’t understand why there’s been another increase in less than a month. It really doesn’t make sense,” said Stanley Masilela, a commuter from Rockdale.

Speaking to Highveld Chronicle, NDTA chairperson Themba Mncina said the official fare from Rockdale to the CBD remains R18, dismissing the circulating notice.

“This notice does not represent the association’s official position and should be disregarded,” said Mncina.

He explained that the confusion stems from disagreements among some taxi owners and drivers who are pushing for higher fares ahead of expected fuel increases.

“Some feel that the taxi price should have increased to R20 to accommodate the coming fuel increases,” he said.

Mncina stressed that the association does not implement more than one fare increase in a year.

“However, if circumstances push us to an increase, we will do so after we have consulted the communities, which are our customers,” he added.

He further advised commuters to report cases of overcharging to the NDTA office.

The clarification follows a fare adjustment on 1 May 2026, when the Nasaret and District Taxi Association increased taxi fares from R15 to R18 for trips to the CBD and mall, while routes to Dennesig, Aerorand and Kanonkop increased to R20.

Highveld Chronicle will continue to monitor the situation and report any official updates from the NDTA.