The KZN Transport Department is projected to rake in millions of rands in vehicle licensing fees as motorists flock to the department’s offices to convert to new vehicle licence discs ahead of the end of November deadline.

The Witness reports that, according to provincial traffic laws, vehicles with old number plates and discs will not be allowed on the province’s roads from the beginning of December.

Briefing the KZN Legislature’s Finance portfolio committee yesterday, Transport MEC Siboniso Duma said the department was expecting to generate vast sums of cash from the conversion to new licences.

“On revenue collection, we wish to report to the honourable members that, as the department, we have collected R1.34b.

“We are determined to collect R1.347b through the new and renewal of motor vehicle licenses.

“Importantly, we are reminding motorists to obtain new license discs and number plates for their vehicles before the end of November. From December 1, we are going to be aligned with the national numbering system.

“The use of the old number plate will be a violation of the National Road Traffic Act.

“Motorists should go to their nearest registering authorities and fill out the relevant forms, and obtain their license discs.

“Once this is done, new plates must be purchased and fitted to the vehicle.”

On traffic law violations, which usually peak during the festive season, Duma said the department has begun escalating its enforcement of the traffic laws campaign.

“In today’s (Thursday’s) presentation, we highlight the fact that we have spent R30m procuring a fleet that is customised to roll out smart road blocks.

“Our highly efficient team from the Road Traffic Inspectorate has ensured that patrol vehicles are fitted with specialised software.

“Through this technology, we will detect stolen cars.

“The system is supported by Crime Recognition Software that scans number plates and checks them against databases for unpaid fines, summonses, and arrest warrants.

“As we go into the festive season, we have arrested more than 1326 motorists for drunk driving.

“Others with unpaid fines have been made to pay on the spot, and those with warrants of arrest have been made to account,” he said.

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