The ANC has called Cabinet's approval of the tariffs for the controversial e-toll system “bold and progressive”.
It says it commends Cabinet for endorsing the revised tariffs that saw a slight reduction on the fee structure initially gazetted and subsequently suspended earlier this year.
The ruling party specifically highlights the exemption of all taxis and buses from the e-toll system, which is based on a user-pay principle.
“This will result in motorists, motorcyclists and truck drivers paying much reduced toll fees. We are equally impressed that the Department of Transport (DOT) has taken on board and listened to the views and concerns of the public, something that has led to the revised toll fee structure.”
The Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG) has also welcomed the tariff approval, believing it brings certainty on the matter.
“The GPG notes with satisfaction the reduction in the tariffs, particularly for motor vehicles and freight transportation vehicles.”
It says exemption of public transport is a significant measure aimed at minimising the impact of tolling on the vast majority of working people in Gauteng.
“In addition, this is a welcome relief, especially for commuters who use public transport on a daily basis.”
September consultations
The GPG is reviewing the proposals on the next phase of the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project (GFIP). As part of this review, it will engage in public consultations on the matter, which will be initiated by the DOT in September.
The GPG says both the further development of the public transport system and the upgrading and expansion of the roads networks are essential for economic growth.
Also, better urban planning and densification can contribute to the reduction in costs for developing roads infrastructure and the public transport system, according to the provincial government.
“We want to reaffirm our commitment to a reliable, accessible, safe and affordable transport system. The GPG also reiterates its commitment to on-going engagements on the matter with the broadest range of stakeholders in the province.”
Burdening the beneficiaries
The ANC says it has always maintained that the GFIP should not be done at the expense of the public or impact negatively on the cost of doing business in Gauteng or anywhere else in SA.
It also agrees with the assertion that the improvement of the road infrastructure should not be a burden to those it is supposed to benefit - the road users.
“We urge all South Africans to welcome these revised tariffs, particularly the exemption of public transport from the tariff structure.”
However, Cabinet's acceptance of the tariffs has been slammed by industry players, political parties and labour. There have been several mentions of strikes, protests and civil disobedience.
National chairperson of Justice Project SA Howard Dembovsky says: “I think that as much as Sanral [South African National Roads Agency] and the DOT may wish that they have appeased and mitigated the risk of taxi drivers rioting, this thing is far from over and I would not be in the least bit surprised if ordinary motorists and transport operators embark on mass action, the likes of which can only be compared to what went down in Egypt.
“Many have warned about civic disobedience (not paying). I am warning that we can expect vandalism and maybe even riots.”
Xhead = Pay up
Cabinet last week approved tariffs for e-tolling in Gauteng, which dictates that motorcycles (Class A1) with e-tags will pay 24c/km; light vehicles (Class A2) will pay 40c/km; medium vehicles (Class B) 100c/km; and “longer” vehicles (Class C) 200c/km.
Qualifying commuter taxis (Class A2) and commuter busses (Class B) are completely exempt from the e-toll system.
The reduction for light vehicles without e-tags saw a drop from 66c/km, to 58c/km; and from R3.95 for heavy vehicles without e-tags to R2.95.
The e-tolling project is an open road, multilane toll infrastructure that allows tolls to be charged without drivers having to stop. There are no physical booths.
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