Useful Information:
About Bara Taxi Rank
Bara Taxi Rank is a prominent taxi rank located in Soweto, Johannesburg, South Africa. It is situated near the Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, one of the largest hospitals in the Southern Hemisphere, from which the taxi rank gets its name. Bara Taxi Rank is one of the busiest and most important transport hubs in the area, serving as a key gateway for commuters traveling to various parts of Johannesburg and beyond.
Background and overview
- Location: Bara Taxi Rank is located in Soweto, specifically near the Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital in the heart of the township. It is an essential transportation hub for the area, providing easy access to Johannesburg’s Central Business District (CBD), nearby suburbs, and other regions of the city.
- Importance: Bara Taxi Rank plays a significant role in the local transportation network, particularly for commuters traveling between Soweto and Johannesburg. The taxi rank is an essential hub for minibus taxis, which are the primary mode of transport for many South Africans who rely on them for their daily commutes.
- Commuter Traffic: Bara Taxi Rank is bustling with activity, especially during peak hours. Thousands of people use the rank each day, either for work, healthcare visits, or other travel needs. Many commuters from Soweto and surrounding areas travel to and from Bara Taxi Rank, making it a crucial point for accessing the city.
- Facilities: The rank offers basic facilities for commuters, such as waiting areas and food vendors. There are informal street vendors around the taxi rank, offering snacks, drinks, and other necessities. While the facilities are functional, they may not be as modern or comfortable as those in other transport hubs, but they serve the purpose of catering to the large number of daily commuters.
Bara Taxi Rank is a vital transport hub for Soweto and Johannesburg, connecting thousands of commuters to the city’s various regions every day. It is located near major landmarks like Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital and provides access to various retail and public services. Although it can be crowded and may have some security concerns, the taxi rank plays an essential role in the transportation infrastructure of Johannesburg’s southern regions.
Bara Taxi Rank Price List
| Departure | Destination | Fare |
|---|---|---|
| Bara (Soweto) | Sebokeng Hospital | R45.00 |
| Bara (Soweto) | Pretoria | R55.00 |
| Bara (Soweto) | Tembisa | R28.00 |
| Bara (Soweto) | Randfontein | R26.00 |
| Bara (Soweto) | Fourways Mall | R20.00 |
| Bara (Soweto) | Bryanston | R28.00 |
| Bara (Soweto) | Sandton City | R28.00 |
Safety Tips
- Avoid the Rank Late at Night
- Try to avoid being at the taxi rank after dark. Some reviews mention incidents of robberies at night, with individuals feeling unsafe or even witnessing robberies.
- The rank can be riskier after dark, with less foot traffic and visibility, which makes it a more appealing target for criminals.
- Stay Alert and Keep Your Belongings Secure
- Always stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Keep your bags, wallets, and phones close and securely fastened. It’s important not to display valuable items openly.
- Muggings and thefts are common in busy places, particularly where there is a large concentration of people, like a taxi rank. Keeping personal belongings secure minimizes the risk of theft.
- Keep Your Distance from Crowded or Isolated Areas
- In particularly crowded spots, or isolated areas of the rank, exercise extra caution. It’s safer to stay near well-lit and populated sections.
- Crowded areas can create opportunities for pickpockets and other criminals, while isolated spots might make you more vulnerable to crime.
- Don’t Enter the Rank by Car if Possible
- If you’re driving, avoid entering the taxi rank directly. Some users report trouble getting in and out, and it can be stressful navigating the congested area.
- The rank can be very busy and hard to maneuver through if you’re driving, and this could lead to frustration, exposure to potential risks, or accidents.
- Stick to Official Taxis or Trusted Transport Providers
- Opt for official or trusted minibus taxis and avoid using unregistered transport. Taxi drivers at Bara are reported to be helpful and take security seriously.
- Using trusted taxi services can reduce your risk, as operators often have a zero-tolerance policy for criminal activity and will look out for passengers’ safety.
- Use the Taxi Rank During Peak Hours
- Tip: If possible, use the rank during busier hours when the area is more populated and security measures are heightened.
- Reason: The more crowded the area, the less likely you are to be targeted by criminals. High foot traffic and the presence of more people reduce the chances of being involved in a crime.
- Be Cautious Around Unfamiliar People
- Tip: Always approach people with caution, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area. While people are generally helpful, it’s important to trust your instincts.
- Reason: Commuters have reported mixed experiences with interactions at the rank, with some suggesting that certain people could pose a risk.
While Bara Taxi Rank can be considered safe, especially with its good security measures, following these safety tips will help you stay aware and avoid potential dangers. Avoid the rank at night when it’s less populated, stay alert in crowded areas, and always secure your belongings.
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Nearby Amenities
Bara Taxi Rank, located near the bustling Bara (Baragwanath) area in Diepkloof, Soweto, Johannesburg, is not just a major transport hub but is also surrounded by various amenities and services that cater to the daily needs of commuters and visitors. Here’s a list of common amenities and facilities you can find near the rank:
Shopping and Retail
- Baragwanath Mall: This is a large shopping mall located near the taxi rank, offering a variety of stores, including supermarkets, fashion outlets, pharmacies, and fast-food chains.
- Soweto Market: A local market where you can find fresh produce, clothing, and household goods at reasonable prices.
Food and Restaurants
- Fast Food Outlets: There are several fast-food chains and street vendors selling quick snacks like chips, samoosas, pies, and traditional South African foods (e.g., pap, wors, and bunny chows).
- Sit-Down Restaurants: Some sit-down eateries offer more substantial meals, catering to the tastes of both locals and visitors.
Transport Services
- Taxi Services: Besides the Bara Taxi Rank itself, you’ll find various other taxis, minibus taxis, and even local buses for those looking to travel further afield.
- Commuter Trains: The Bara area is well-connected by the train system, with the nearby Baragwanath Railway Station offering commuter train services.
Banks and ATMs
- There are ATMs and bank branches (e.g., Standard Bank, FNB, and Absa) within or around the Bara area for easy access to cash.
Medical and Health Services
- Baragwanath Hospital: One of the largest public hospitals in South Africa is located nearby, providing medical services for both emergencies and regular care.
- Pharmacies: There are several pharmacies around the area for picking up medicine or other health-related needs.
Public Toilets
- Toilets are available near the taxi rank, though the cleanliness and maintenance can vary. It’s always a good idea to keep some change on hand for using these facilities.
Security and Policing
- There are police presence and security personnel around the area, although safety can sometimes be a concern in busy areas. It’s advised to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded times.
Hair Salons and Barber Shops
- Several salons and barber shops in the vicinity offer haircuts, styling, and grooming services.
Post Office and Postal Services
- A post office in the area allows for mail services, as well as sending and receiving parcels.
Entertainment and Culture
- Vilakazi Street: While a short distance away, this iconic street is a cultural and historical hub, home to attractions like the Apartheid Museum, Soweto Theatre, and the House of Desmond Tutu. It’s a great spot for both locals and tourists.
Community Centers
- There are several community centers and local offices where people can access civic services.
Mobile Service Providers
- Shops selling mobile phones, airtime, and accessories are scattered throughout the area, catering to the needs of commuters and local residents.