Transport Minister Sbu Ndebele's “bold and progressive” step to suspend the toll tariffs in Gauteng were commended by the ANC on Wednesday.
“We fully share sentiments expressed by Minister Ndebele and Premier Nomvula Mokonyane, that while there is a need to boost transport infrastructure, it should not be done at the expense of the public or impacting severely on the cost of doing business in Gauteng or anywhere else in South Africa,” spokesman Jackson Mthembu said in a statement.
“We, indeed, are in agreement with the assertion by both our national and provincial governments that the improvement of our road infrastructure should not be a burden to those it is supposed to benefit Ä the road users.”
Ndebele's suspension of the tariffs on Tuesday followed a massive public outcry and a threat of strike action by ANC ally, the Congress of SA Trade Unions in Gauteng.
Concerns were raised over the lack of public transport in the province and the impact of the cost of the tolling system on the poor.
“The positive reaction by Comrade Sbu Ndebele to the public outcry over the introduction of toll tariffs in Gauteng, sets a good example of how an ANC cadre should deal with matters that impact on the people by listening to their concerns and acting in a manner that takes people's interests above everything else,” said Mthembu
He said the move should put to rest the public urge to stage protests against the Gauteng Freeway Project.
“To do so now would amount to jumping the gun as the inclusion of all affected parties has made the process representative of all views.”
Earlier this month, Ndebele said those who did not like the tolling system could use public transport.
There was a public outcry after the SA National Roads Agency Limited announced that motorists could expect to pay 66 cents a kilometre before discounts when travelling on the 185km route.
Motorists who purchased the e-tag system would pay 49.5 cents a kilometre, while medium-sized vehicles with the e-tag system would be charged R1.49 a kilometre. Heavy duty vehicles with an e-tag would be charged R2.97 per kilometre.
Motorists would get further discounts depending on when they used the highway and on whether they were frequent users.
Road users would not have to stop at a traditional toll booth, but would drive under gantries, fitted with electronic equipment and cameras. -
Sapa