NGCOBO - Eastern Cape Transport MEC Xolile Nqatha says taxi operator protests could be detrimental to the province's economy.
Services in Ngcobo came to a grinding halt after the taxi industry embarked on a shutdown.
They are accusing long-distance bus services of stealing their business.
The angry taxi bosses also claim that some bus operators are operating without permits, and law enforcement chooses to turn a blind eye.
The transport department says it will escalate the taxi operators' concerns.
But Nqatha has warned that the industry cannot deprive people of access to essential services and act as if it's above the law.
Taxi operations are expected to resume on Thursday.
- eNCA's Ronald Masinda reports.