Public participation on the proposed e-tolling in Gauteng will start next week, the transport department said on Wednesday.
The controversial tariffs were suspended last month after a meeting between Transport Minister Sibusiso Ndebele and Gauteng Premier Nomvula Mokonyane.
A committee was established to address concerns around the toll tariffs. It had representatives from the government, business, labour, commuter organisations and civil society institutions.
On Wednesday Democratic Alliance transport spokesperson Manny de Freitas raised concerns about the lack of involvement of Gauteng’s road users in the project. They would be hardest hit by the tolling system, to be implemented later this year as part of the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project.
The transport department said organisations and individuals could make submissions via post, email or hand delivery.
“The public participation process will take the form of two categories: written submissions from all interested stakeholders and individuals; or oral representations, which must be supported by written submissions.
“In the case of oral representation, the date, time and venue will be communicated upon receipt of the written submission, which must also clearly state the request for oral representation.”
Members of the public were asked to align their submissions, “as far as possible” with the committee’s work. It was looking at the financial implications and options of the tolling system on the one hand, and ways of improving public transport on the other.
Submissions must be clearly marked “Gauteng e-toll engagement”.
They can be posted to:
The Department of Transport
Private Bag X 193
Pretoria
0001
Hand delivered to:
Department of Transport
Forum Building 159, Struben Street
Pretoria
0001
Or e-mailed or faxed to:
[email protected]
086 519 2300