App-based taxi service Uber on Wednesday welcomed the National Assembly’s approval of the National Land Transport Amendment Bill. The bill has been in the making since 2013, and initially excluded e-hailing as a subcategory, although it allowed the use of a smartphone in lieu of a taxi meter. According to Parliament, the National Land Transport Bill amends the 2009 act by, among other things, providing for non-motorised and accessible transport. This brings the legislation up to date with the various technological developments. It also provides powers for provinces to conclude contracts for public transport services, expanding the minister’s powers to make regulations and introduce safety measures. The bill also prescribes criteria and requirements for municipalities to enter into contracts for public transport services. Public transport Transport Minister Blade Nzimande said the proposed law will play a key role in responding to issues facing public transport. For example, it will ...

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