Why operational subsidies are key to reforming SA’s taxis

I see all sorts of problems with this: one is the attraction that such guaranteed "minimum wage" would have for operators and the consequent over entry into the sector. In time the costs of the subsidies would mushroom  while taxis (real or imagined) would stand idle. Would the reduction in running costs be passed on to commuters and why should taxi owners be selected for such special treatment? Is their contribution to the economy any greater than any other sector such as repair shops, informal shops, security firms, electricians, private doctors etc. As with many such schemes it can be made to work - with volumes and volumes of legislation and further government agencies and personnel to administer the laws.