The Minister of Transport Ms. Dipuo Peters has noted reports in the media regarding the possible introduction of electronic tolling in KwaZulu-Natal.
Minister Peters wishes to reassure the public that no decision to this effect has been taken.
“Any decision to introduce any form of tolling in any part of the country will and can only be taken in consultation with authorities in that province and other affected parties, particularly organized civil society, business and consumers.
I therefore wish to clarify reports that a decision has been taken to introduce electric tolling in some parts of KwaZulu-Natal as untrue,” says Minister Peters.
The Minister says while the Department of Transport fully appreciates the need to come up with solutions to resolve the current road infrastructure backlog in South Africa, it is equally important to consult thoroughly with would-be affected parties. This, she says, would assist in weighing the pros and cons and thorough scrutinizing of all available options.
“We are currently focused on resolving some of the challenges emanating from the introduction of electronic tolling in some parts of the Gauteng province. SANRAL and the service provider responsible for the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project should continue to focus on resolving these current challenges,” says Minister Peters.
The Minister has also reassured residents of the North West province that government continues to explore sustainable solutions regarding the economic effects of tolling in some parts of the province such as Swartruggens.
“A multi-disciplinary team comprising officials of the national Department of Transport, Sanral, the provincial Department of Transport and labour will continue to engage on this and other related issues. Our aim is to take communities with us whenever we make decisions that would directly or indirectly have an economic impact on their lives,” concludes Minister Peters.
