'Govt listens to needs of its citizens', says Transport Minister as e-tolls officially discontinued in Gauteng

Source: EWN Traffic
Author: Nhlanhla Mabaso

JOHANNESBURG - The Transport Department says concerns from road users about e-toll system necessitated that it should be ended.

Officials from the transport ministry, the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) and the Gauteng government led proceedings on Thursday night to mark an end to the electronic tolling system.

Government officials said while e-tolls were aimed at contributing to the economic growth, they also came with displeasure from road users.

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An official countdown marked the end for e-tolls, with Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga describing the moment as government's kept promise.

"From this moment road users will no longer be charged for using the Gauteng freeway improvement project. This decision is a testament of our government to listen to and serve the needs of the citizens. So yes, the e-tolls are dead."

Although the roads were not as busy during the programme, some motorists could not contain their excitement - hooting loudly as they passed by the gantry.