Gauteng premier wants e-tolling reviewed

"We shall set up a panel to review the impact of e-tolls and invite new proposals on how we can find a lasting solution to this matter, working with the national government, municipalities and all sectors of society," he said in his state-of-the-province address in Thokoza, south of Johannesburg.

 

"While we shall not promise easy solutions and claim easy victories, we must make it clear that we cannot close our eyes to the cries of sectors of our population who are severely affected by the cost of travelling across the province."

 

He said deliberations were needed on how to finance road infrastructure.

 

"I urge those who have vehicles to continue to pay [e-tolls] while we are finding a lasting solution."

 

Opposition to Urban Tolling Alliance (Outa) chairman Wayne Duvenage welcomed the move, saying Makhura appeared to have a clear understanding of the "irrationality" and high costs of the system, which was unaffordable to thousands of people.

 

Outa spokesman John Clarke warned of "meaningless talk".

 

"It is very important that this does not simply become another co-option tactic that degenerates into a meaningless talk shop," he said in a statement.

 

"It must be an honest and frank engagement by the authorities to unpack the real issues on the matter."

 

E-tolling was implemented in Gauteng in December despite several court challenges to halt the project.