TRANSPORT
Fix the system that issues driver permits before amending act
Uber has had extensive first-hand experience with this frustratingly slow process, writes Alon Lits
The spirit and intention of the amendments to the National Land Transport Act put forward by the transport ministry are to be commended. It is especially pleasing that they include ride-sharing and e-hailing operators and drivers as legitimate participants in the country’s public transport system, which points to the government’s willingness to embrace the changes and innovation taking place in the country’s transport industry. However, there are aspects of the proposed amendments that are, at best, premature given that the necessary well-functioning systems and processes are not yet in place to make these regulatory changes viable. Of particular concern are the significant penalties that will need to be paid by ride-sharing and e-hailing companies whose independent operators are found to be transporting passengers without a legal permit issued by the relevant local authority. These fines can be as high as R100,000 per driver operating without a permit. Apart from being excessive, t...
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