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Still no decision on e-tolling
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PDF The Department of Transport (DOT) has reiterated that no decision has been made on the controversial Gauteng toll tariffs.
Following media reports that the proposed toll tariff of 66c/km for motorists will more than likely not change – the department has said the claims were “inaccurate”.
“We wish to reiterate that no decision has been made on the Gauteng toll tariffs. The tariffs will be announced by Transport Minister Sibusiso Ndebele in due course, after studying the final recommendations of the Steering Committee as well as consultation with the Political Oversight Committee,” Transport DG and chairperson of the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project (GFIP) Toll Steering Committee, George Mahlalela said.
He added that the steering committee, which announced by Transport minister Sibusiso Ndebele to make recommendations on the proposed toll tariff of 66c/km, has not completed its report and will be meeting again with stakeholders on 30 June.
The GFIP is an initiative which will lead to the upgrade or construction of approximately 500kms of roads around the Tshwane, Johannesburg and Ekurhuleni metros. The system allows for tolls to be automatically charged without vehicles stopping or slowing down.
When the vehicle enters the toll area, the electronic equipment will photograph the front and rear number plate, read the e-tag on the vehicle, verify the tag if is linked to the specific vehicle and have an account linked to it.
Initial tariffs indicated that light vehicle drivers will be charged 66 cents for every km travelled on the provincial freeways; motorcycles will pay 40 cents per km while taxis will pay half the amount.
“It was made clear right at the outset that the principle of tolling has been accepted, and that the matter under review is the proposed tariff of 66c/km. Therefore, this type of reporting by certain sections of the media is totally mischievous,” he says.
Mahlalela noted that comments and proposals received from organised formations and civil society has been “overwhelming”. The committee also had to reschedule follow-up engagement and consultations with stakeholders.
“In the interest of all road users, we cannot rush into hasty decisions on the e-tolling issue as this might, however well-intended, undermine the very aim of having engaged with all the stakeholders. Unfortunately, this isn’t helped by a small part of the media that report incorrectly and irresponsibly on tolling seemingly to create sensation,” he added.
