KNYSNA NEWS - Uber and other e-hailing drivers took to the streets on Friday 13 November burning tyres and blocking the N2 at the intersection into Hornlee following the impoundment of more than 20 vehicles in Knysna.

The N2 was temporarily closed before reopening at approximately 20:00 last night.

The impounded vehicles were reportedly taken to George. Drivers said they had been informed that fines and other costs exceeding R10 000 would have to be paid to secure their release by Monday 16 November.

The protest stems from frustration over the reported closure of applications for e-hailing operating licences. Although most affected drivers have been operating without permits, they say they have been unable to obtain the required licences despite efforts to comply with the legislation.

The National Land Transport Amendment Act and related regulations, which came into effect on 12 September 2025, require e-hailing vehicles to hold valid operating licences and platforms to be registered with the National Public Transport Regulator.

In a parliamentary response in May, Western Cape Mobility MEC Isaac Sileku said delays in registering platforms had affected the conversion of existing licences. The department had requested a further 12 months for the process and said operators awaiting conversion would not face punitive enforcement action.

Affected drivers and members of the newly formed Uber United Drivers Association are expected to meet with Knysna Municipality officials and provincial traffic authorities to discuss the impoundments and permit availability.

Knysna Municipality, the Western Cape Provincial Regulatory Entity (PRE) and the Department of Mobility have been approached for comment. Their responses will be added once received.

‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’