The SA National Roads Agency (Sanral) is requesting more time for the case against e-tolling, which is being heard at the Pretoria High Court today.
It says the introduction of the penalty tariff issues makes it a different case and, therefore, more time is needed to respond, according to DA Gauteng Caucus leader Jack Bloom.
The Opposition to Urban Tolling Alliance (OUTA) lodged an application to get e-tolling interdicted. It says Sanral is not ready to go ahead with the system on 30 April as the promised exemptions for public transport and emergency vehicles are not in place as yet.
Bloom says Sanral wants the case to be postponed for a few weeks, but judge Bill Prinsloo says there is no reason to repeat the hearing.
The hearing continues.
Anti-toll union
Meanwhile, finance union Sasbo is encouraging its 70 000 members not to buy e-tags. “This is in protest against the introduction of e-tolling and the requirement to buy e-tags as a result of the effect it will have on inflation, job losses and the broader economy,” says general secretary Shaun Oelschig.
“The process is defective, unregulated and unfair. Too many questions remain unanswered, too much disinformation and confusion exists for implementation on 30 April 2012,” says Oelschig.
The SA Municipal Workers Union has also encouraged drivers to not purchase e-tags. It adds that it will once again support the Congress of SA Trade Union's nationwide action against e-tolling on 30 April.
Public overpays
In OUTA's responding affidavit, for the case against e-tolling, it says some of the concerns with the e-toll system include outstanding amendments to the terms and conditions, finalising processes and conditions for exempted users, and enforcement matters.
“It is a case we have prepared well for and we are hopeful of a positive outcome,” says OUTA chairperson Wayne Duvenage.
“This is not a matter of a few unhappy people who are opposed to e-tolling. This is a matter of the vast majority of citizens from all segments of the population who are opposed to what can only be described as an unjust, unnecessary and costly taxation which has been thrust upon them.”
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