By Jonews Reporter
THE Diepsloot taxi rank was officially opened on Friday, 21 February by Gauteng's MEC for Public Transport, Khabisi Mosunkutu.
The project - the construction of the taxi rank and upgrading of the entrance road - is part of the provincial government's initiative in infrastructure development and job creation. The rank, which includes an office block, ablution block and palisade fencing, will serve nine taxi lanes covered by canopies serving as waiting areas for commuters. And "the existing provincial road P79/1 has been upgraded to four lanes," says department spokesperson, Sizwe Matshikiza.
Speaking at the launch, Mosunkutu said 93 jobs were created for the local community during the construction period and a total of R438 000 earned as salaries for those who were hired to work on the project.
"The development of these facilities - started in 2001 and completed in July 2002 - is very complementary to the Gauteng provincial government's operational theme, which says 'Together creating jobs and fighting poverty'," continued Mosunkutu.
The MEC commended the unity between the government and the Diepsloot community that has led "to yet another important social and economic infrastructure.
"Jointly we have created jobs, warded off the ugly face of poverty whilst simultaneously laying solid grounds for further economic development," he said.
