Limpopo scholar transport fees up nearly 50%
The Limpopo Scholar Transport Alliance says fee hikes of nearly 50% were necessary due to rising fuel, licensing and insurance costs.
POLOKWANE – The Limpopo Scholar Transport Alliance has reassured parents that recent increases in scholar transport fees were not implemented abruptly or out of spite, but were necessary to maintain safe and reliable services.
The statement follows complaints from parents on social media after some scholar transport operators announced fare increases of nearly 50%.
What drove the increases
Alliance spokesperson Thapedi Kgole said several factors were considered before implementing the increases, including:
- Licensing and insurance costs
- Rising fuel prices, described as one of the biggest expenses
He said the alliance, which comprises more than 27 local transport associations, also engages internally to ensure increases remain fair and aligned with market conditions.
Flexible payment options available
Speaking to BONUS last Thursday, Kgole added that the alliance tries to accommodate parents where possible through practical solutions, such as flexible payment arrangements for those struggling financially.
Vehicles previously impounded for non-compliance
Scholar transport in the city has faced increased scrutiny in recent months. The Department of Transport impounded several scholar transport vehicles at Polokwane station after they were found operating without required permits and in violation of safety regulations.
Department spokesperson Matome Taueatswala said the vehicles were impounded for non-compliance with safety requirements and lack of authorisation, stressing that “the safety of children remains the top priority”.
Enforcement intensified
He said enforcement has been intensified across the province to ensure all learner transport vehicles are legally permitted, roadworthy and compliant with safety standards.
Parents and guardians have been urged to verify that transport services used for their children are properly registered and meet legal requirements.
Operating licence deadline
The department previously gave operators 60 days from February 16 to finalise operating licence applications, with a prescribed fee of R627.66 (subject to change).
It has also urged drivers in Limpopo to apply fair and balanced pricing that considers current economic pressures.
