Government tries again with e-tolls

Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa presented a new dispensation on e-tolls in Gauteng on Wednesday, May 20. This is due to be rolled out in various phases dependant on legal and regulatory processes.

According to Ramaphosa, the new dispensation is a product of engagement at national and provincial levels, through engagement with treasury, the Department of Transport, the South African National Roads Agency Limited (Sanral) and the Gauteng government.
   
The new dispensation puts forward numerous amendments. These include:
•A single reduced tariff now applies to all motorists, dependant on class of vehicle, irrespective of whether or not an e-tag is fitted. This will come into effect within the next two to three months.
•The monthly cap has been reduced. Drivers of light motor vehicles, for example, won’t pay more than R225 per month. This will need to be paid up within 30 days, however, or it will be doubled. This will come into effect within the next two to three months.
•There will be no charge for infrequent users making less than 30 passes a year.
•Toll fees that are currently outstanding (dating back to Dec 2013) will be discounted by 60 percent, and drivers will have six months to settle the debt at the discounted rate.
•It is intended that settlement of tolls will be linked to vehicle licence renewal.
•More payment options and simplified administration systems will be implemented to improve ease of use and accuracy of information.
• Public transport with operating permits remains exempt.

Ramaphosa says that regular updates will be provided as the new toll system is developed.