The Department of Transport (DOT) is now allowing oral presentations from the public with regards to the controversial e-tolling system.
It also says citizens can post, hand-deliver, e-mail or fax written submissions on the matter.
This comes after complaints from the Democratic Alliance that the methods for the public to engage on e-tolling were too limited. The department previously only allowed for written, posted submissions.
E-mail engagement
Earlier this month, the DOT announced a steering committee that would be tasked with the responsibility of consulting and engaging with stakeholders and citizens on e-tolling.
This followed the suspension of the tariff structure for the system after outrage by citizens, organised labour and business at the high toll fees, which were set at 66c/km for standard motor vehicles.
The DOT now says the steering committee invites stakeholders and citizens to engage and participate through a public participation process from 22 March to 7 April.
Stakeholders and citizens are requested to submit their proposals by post to the DOT, Private Bag X 193, Pretoria, 0001; hand-deliver to the DOT at the Forum Building, 159 Struben Street, Pretoria, 0001; e-mail to etoll@dot.gov.za; or fax to 086 519 2300.
The department emphasises that all submissions must be clearly marked “Gauteng e-toll engagement”.
Imminent implementation
The department says the public participation process will take the form of two categories. The first is the written submissions from all interested stakeholders and individuals. The second category is oral representations, which must be supported by written submissions.
“In the case of oral representation, the date, time and venue will be communicated upon receipt of the written submission, which must also clearly state the request for oral representation. Oral representations will commence on 22 March and conclude on 7 April 2011.”
Stakeholders and members of the public are requested to make their submissions, as far as possible, in line with the specific work-streams of the steering committee, says the DOT.
There are two work-streams, with the first being the financial and tariff modelling work-stream, tasked with exploring various financial options. The second is the public transport transformation work-stream, tasked with exploring ways of improving the current public transport offering.
E-tolling is an open road, multi-lane toll infrastructure that allows for tolls to be charged without drivers having to stop. There are no physical booths.
Live testing is expected from the end of the month, with the system's final implementation scheduled for 23 June. However, the DOT says these dates may be delayed if the need arises.
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