Toll increase to hit already cash-strapped motorists hard
In case you missed it: The South African National Roads Agency announced the increase in toll tariffs effective from March 1.
Sanral recently announced its annual increase of 5% in toll prices, which kicked in on March 1.
Spokesperson Vusi Mona said the agency was mindful that the increase was implemented during tough economic times due to the coronavirus outbreak.
“The increase is, however, equally important to introduce the adjustments to ensure that Sanral continues to deliver quality roads and services to the public,” said Mona.
He said toll monies were used to maintain, operate and improve toll roads, as well as to service the debt incurred to implement a toll road project.
“We are counting on the public to support us in this endeavour because without this key alternative source of funding we would not be able to carry out some of our major works,” he said.
Mona said the national road network was important for the overall provision of basic services such as electricity, water, sanitation, telecommunications and public transport.
The increase in the overall tolls by Sanral also saw an increase in the contested e-tolls situated between Johannesburg and Tshwane.
Monthly costs for a light vehicle now stands at R300, R1 169 for a medium-sized vehicle and R3 873 for heavy vehicles.
DA Gauteng spokesperson for roads and transport Fredrick Nel said the party was disappointed with the increase while there were calls for scrapping the e-tolls.
“Our residents already have a tight budget and e-tolls are just an extra burden on them,” Nel said.
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“This once again confirmed that the Minister of Transport Fikile Mbalula has absolutely no intention of getting rid of e-tolls. Every year since 2018, the Minister of Transport, Premier David Makhura and MEC for Roads and Transport have been promising that e-tolls will be scrapped.”
The scheme was implemented in December 2013. It has been met with public rejection with motorists refusing to pay. Civil organisations and political parties continue to put pressure on the government to scrap e-tolls.
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