Latest news with #WesternCapeMobilityDepartment
Daily Maverick
6 days ago
- Business
- Daily Maverick
E-hailing drivers demand action over frozen licence approvals while impoundment fees soar
E-hailing drivers in Cape Town are considering legal action after the City froze licence approvals, leaving them vulnerable to having their vehicles impounded. E-hailing drivers are up in arms over the City of Cape Town freezing the approval of additional licences since the end of March, when the City claimed it had met its 'full allowed quota' of 3,354 licences. It had received more than 14,000 applications. The City and Western Cape Mobility Department, community and industry groups have been meeting to determine the next steps, with drivers complaining that they have to pay exorbitant impoundment fees for operating without licences. Looking forward, Councillor Rob Quintas, a member of the City's Mayoral Committee for Urban Mobility, told Daily Maverick: 'The revised supply and demand for metered taxi services, which includes e-hailing, has been determined. 'The City will be presenting the revised metered taxi supply and demand numbers at a Special Metered Taxi Intermodal Planning Sub-Committee meeting on 17 June 2025, and will make this information available to the public.' Western Cape Mobility Department spokesperson Muneera Allie said: 'Once approval is given (to the Permit Regulatory Entity by the City for additional applicants), and a quota is determined… applications will be handled on a first-come-first-served basis.' E-hailing drivers are required to have an operating licence or risk their cars being impounded by the City, due to an amendment to the National Land Transport Act signed in June 2024. If there is a continued shortage of operating licences, the Western Cape E-Hailing Association (WCEA) is considering taking the Western Cape Permit Regulatory Entity and City of Cape Town to court to call for a pause on impoundments until the permitting system is reformed. A court ruled in favor of e-hailing drivers in a similar case in Pretoria. There, drivers proved it was 'impossible' to obtain a permit due to City backlogs. The association also calls on the regulatory entity to stop taking applications and application fees before new permits open up. Quintas clarified: 'Legally, the regulatory entity cannot refuse to accept applications even if the upper limit of the City's supply and demand numbers have been saturated already. Therefore, the operators apply at their own risk.' The 'trauma' of impoundment Drivers in Cape Town have been feeling the impact of impoundments as the City stalls in approving new operating licences. The impoundment fees are high. One driver, who wished to remain anonymous for fear of being blocked from driving, said: 'The fees were R7,500, R2,500, and R1,000 — totalling R11,000 in one go. The car is financed, and once it was impounded, I couldn't make the instalment, couldn't pay for the business insurance, and couldn't raise money to get the car released. It's a trauma I can never forget.' According to the City of Cape Town's website: 'The impoundment fee is for the initial storage, hooking, salvaging and administration costs for the vehicle's impoundment… The fee increases for first, second and third offences.' In addition, drivers must pay for any outstanding fines before receiving their vehicle. Immediately, drivers feel the impact of impoundment. A driver said: 'I was impounded at 8.45am, 15km away from home, with no money on me. I had to walk home through unsafe areas. The police don't care how you get back — they just take your car… Where is the dignity?' In the long term, these fees can be devastating. According to the Deputy Secretary-General of the Western Cape E-hailing Association, Yusuf Dahir, a driver who works for 12 hours a day (the maximum allowed for Uber) earns approximately R1,000/day or R7,000/week. An estimated 80 to 90% of drivers do not own their vehicles. In general, R2,000-R3,000 of their weekly income goes to rent or weekly commission for the vehicle and R2,000 goes to petrol, leaving drivers with about R2,000 to take home at the end of the week. With this reality, the R10,000 impoundment fee is enormous. Drivers recognise that operating without licences is unlawful. Another driver said, 'All we ask is for the City of Cape Town to allow us to apply for e-hailing permits — and approve them. We want to feed our families through honest work.' But drivers are frustrated at the inability to acquire the necessary legal permits, and increasingly feel that the City is using them as a cash cow to collect impoundment fees. At the same time, Uber, Bolt, and other e-hailing services continue to allow new drivers to join the platforms, further allowing the cycle to continue. 'Equitable balance' According to the Mobility Department's Allie, the number of permits allotted in the quota is determined to 'ensure an equitable balance between the demand and supply of metered taxi and e-hailing services'. While applications may be accepted, the regulatory entity has informed applicants that operating licences may only be issued once approval for additional applications is received. According to Maxine Bezuidenhout, the spokesperson for the City of Cape Town's Traffic Services, 42 e-hailing vehicles were impounded in April 2025, and 45 had been impounded by 30 May. Drivers can request reimbursement for the impoundment fees from Uber, but still have to pay the fee up front. Dahir says it often takes days, if not weeks, for Uber to pay out. 'It is likely they will not reimburse.' Dahir also shared concerns about how Uber gathers funds for the impoundment fees. Dahir claimed the money did not come out of pocket for Uber. Instead, according to the drivers, Uber deducted additional fees — beyond its commission — from the driver before their cars were impounded, and used that money to reimburse them for the impoundment fees. For example, according to the drivers, there were additional, 'ever-increasing' fees for accepting rides to, and pick-ups from, airports and unexplained additional deductions at the end of trips. In short, they claimed that Uber was not really paying for the impoundment fees, but rather taking it from the driver in advance through these fees. Uber 'aware of challenges' When asked directly about how the reimbursement process worked, an Uber South Africa spokesperson said in a statement: 'Uber would like to refute the claims made by the drivers. We unequivocally maintain that these claims are unfounded.' In addition, the spokesperson said: 'Uber is aware of the challenges drivers are facing in Cape Town and remains committed to supporting them while engaging relevant stakeholders. Our goal is to ensure a sustainable and inclusive approach to mobility that supports both economic opportunity and safe, reliable transport options in Cape Town.' In response to an inquiry from Daily Maverick that Uber seems to be supporting drivers operating without licences by offering to pay their impoundment fees, Quintas responded: 'Paying someone else's fine or impoundment fee is not necessarily the illegal act.' Further, Quintas appeared to defend Uber and Bolt's practice of onboarding and recruiting new drivers without the possibility of permits being granted. He said: 'E-hailing platform providers have over the years marketed their services to operators and drivers without making an operating licence a compulsory requirement to operate on their platforms. Thus, they onboard operators/drivers and allow them to operate without having a valid operating licence… It seems to be a universal practice by all e-hailing platforms to onboard operators without operating licences.'
The Citizen
08-05-2025
- The Citizen
18 lives lost and high speeding offences recorded on WC roads
Authorities issued more than 8 000 fines and made 128 arrests, 86 of which were for driving under the influence of alcohol. The Western Cape Government has raised the alarm after a grim week on the province's roads. It was revealed on Wednesday that 16 fatal crashes occurred between 29 April and 4 May 2025, claiming the lives of 18 people. Authorities have linked the majority of these incidents to reckless driving, alcohol use, and excessive speed. Spike in fatal crashes 'These statistics should not just shock us – they should spur us into action,' said Muneera Allie, head of communication at the Western Cape Mobility Department. 'In the past week, 16 crashes could have been avoided, and 18 lives could have been saved.' The latest figures underscore the urgent need for road users to follow traffic regulations, especially as the province continues to grapple with loss of life caused by human error and poor judgement behind the wheel. ALSO READ: Five people killed in horror accident, north of Durban in KZN [VIDEO] Alarming speeding violations Provincial Traffic Services recorded 267 speeding offences during the week-long period, with several drivers clocked at dangerously high speeds: 163km/h in a 120km/h zone 139km/h in a 100km/h zone 124km/h in an 80km/h zone 114km/h in a 70km/h zone 104km/h in a 60km/h zone 'These shocking speeds not only endanger the lives of drivers, but also those of passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists,' the department stated. Speeding significantly increases the risk of fatal accidents by reducing reaction time and increasing stopping distances. Tips to avoid speeding The Mobility Department has encouraged motorists to follow the safety tips below: Plan your journey and allow extra time to reach your destination. Pay attention to speed limit signs and road conditions. Avoid distractions and stay focused on the road. Be mindful of the weather and traffic, and adjust your speed accordingly. ALSO READ: Easter road fatalities down, but pedestrian deaths still a major concern Widespread enforcement efforts According to the department, 238 integrated enforcement operations were carried out during the week across the province. These included roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints, and speed control initiatives. More than 36 000 vehicles were stopped and checked. Authorities issued more than 8 000 fines for various offences and made 128 arrests, 86 of which were for driving under the influence of alcohol. The department has reiterated that road safety is a shared responsibility. 'Too many of these incidents are due to human error and a disregard for rules that are intended to protect us all,' Allie added. NOW READ: RTMC team deployed to probe deadly Eastern Cape crash
The South African
29-04-2025
- Automotive
- The South African
Western Cape licence fee increase: Have your say by 17 May
The Western Cape government has invited residents to comment on proposed motor vehicle licence fee increases, published in the Provincial Gazette Extraordinary 9057 on 17 April 2025. The proposed increases will take effect on 1 August 2025. Public comments on the proposal can be submitted until 17 May 2025. While public input is considered during the review period, the government ultimately decides whether to implement the changes. According to Muneera Allie, the Western Cape Mobility Department's Head of Communication, the province has over 2 million registered vehicles and one of the best road conditions in the country. This is mainly due to the provincial government's commitment to ringfencing MVL revenue for road maintenance, upgrades, and expansion. Allie further states the importance of paying your vehicle licence fees. 'It is not just a legal requirement, but an important contribution to keep our roads safe, efficient, and reliable for everyone.' MVL fees are primarily used to: Construct, improve, and maintain the province's road infrastructure. Assist local governments and municipalities in maintaining their more strategic roads. Guarantee the continuous safe mobility for all users of the road. This includes residents, tourists, freight operators, and public transport passengers. The province's roads are vital for residents, businesses, tourism, service provision, and job creation. By keeping roads in top condition, the province safeguards economic competitiveness and improves quality of life. The proposed licence fee increases in the Western Cape will have a significant impact on everyday South Africans, particularly those in lower income brackets. Here is what the increase could mean for average drivers: The proposed fee increase will add to the already high cost of living for many South Africans. The increased licence fees could mean making difficult choices between essential expenses for lower-income households. Additionally, the increase could reduce mobility and heighten financial pressures. The Western Cape government should consider the potential impact of the proposed fee increases on lower-income households. Additionally, explore other alternative solutions that balance the need for revenue with the need to protect vulnerable populations. Email, post or deliver comments to: Email – Post – Mr Darryl Jacobs, Head of Department, Attention Ms Robyn Titus, Western Cape Mobility Department, PO Box 2603, Cape Town 8000 Deliver – Mr Darryl Jacobs, Head of Department, Attention Ms Robyn Titus, Western Cape Mobility Department, Ground Floor, 34 Roeland Street, Cape Town. Western Cape residents are encouraged to review the draft regulation and submit comments before the closing date of 17 May 2025. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
IOL News
26-04-2025
- IOL News
14 pedestrians dead, 181 arrested: Western Cape issues road safety warning for long weekend
The Western Cape Government has called for increased vigilance on the roads after 14 pedestrians died and 181 motorists were arrested for drunk driving over the Easter weekend. Image: Supplied Ahead of the long weekend, followed by a school holiday, the Western Cape Government is calling on all road users to prioritise safety amid a surge in road fatalities and arrests. The appeal follows the Easter weekend during which 14 pedestrians lost their lives on Western Cape roads, and 181 individuals were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol. The Western Cape Mobility Department has described the statistics as a "stark reminder of the real consequences of irresponsible behaviour." "Alcohol impairs judgment, slows reaction times, and puts everyone at risk," the department said, adding that pedestrians remain particularly vulnerable, especially during low visibility conditions or when road rules are ignored. With traffic volumes expected to rise in the coming days, the department is urging drivers to avoid drinking and driving. "Use a ride-hailing service, taxi, or another form of public transport. Designate a sober driver in your group," the department said. Hosts are also encouraged to offer safe options for guests to get home or stay over after gatherings. Pedestrian safety has been strongly emphasised. Road users are urged to cross only at designated crossings, avoid walking on highways, wear reflective clothing, and remain alert without distractions such as phones or headphones near traffic. Special attention is also being called to child safety, with schools closing for the holiday. Parents are reminded to use appropriate car or booster seats, teach children basic road safety, and slow down near residential areas, malls, parks, and playgrounds.
The South African
23-04-2025
- The South African
Lower road death toll over Easter long weekend this year
The Western Cape Provincial Government has expressed encouragement over the slight decline in road-related fatalities during this year's Easter long weekend. However, road users are urged to continue to make responsible choices, especially with another long weekend approaching. Between 17 and 21 April 2025, a total of 22 fatal crashes were recorded in the province, resulting in 22 lives lost. This marks a decline when compared to the 26 road-related fatalities reported over the 2024 Easter period. According to the provincial government, the province recorded 22 fatalities, with 14 occurring on municipal roads and eight on provincial routes, with most of these incidents taking place within the Cape Metro area. The fatalities included 14 pedestrians, five passengers, two drivers, and one motorcyclist. On Sunday, Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, said early indications showed a significant decrease in fatalities and crashes in all provinces, except Mpumalanga. She believes that the public has responded positively to the 2025 Easter Season Road Safety Arrive Alive campaign. Since 20 March 2025, Creecy said officials stopped 782 000 vehicles and issued 116 000 fines. A total of 3 500 drivers were arrested for various offences, and 89 pedestrians were arrested for walking on highways. In addition, 2 200 unroadworthy vehicles were prevented from continuing their journey. Meanwhile, the Western Cape Mobility Department said it had conducted 784 integrated operations across the province during the period, including roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints and speed control operations. In the province, over 30 000 vehicles were stopped and checked, resulting in more than 19 000 fines for various offences, including 8 714 speeding violations. From 07:00 on Friday last week until Tuesday morning, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) recorded a total of 7 988 incidents. The most frequent types of calls included non-cardiac related pain, with 1 505 incidents, followed by respiratory complaints at 1 049, and assault-related injuries at 597. Transport-related emergencies included 85 pedestrian-vehicle accidents, 104 motor vehicle accidents and five incidents involving cyclists. The province's hospitals also managed high volumes at its emergency centres. According to the Hospital Emergency Centre Trauma Information System (HECTIS), 16 395 patient episodes were recorded over Good Friday to Tuesday this week. This includes 3 624 trauma-related cases, while 12 476 were non-trauma incidents. The province also responded to several fatalities over the Easter weekend. These include 23 fatal shootings, six confirmed suicides and one drowning. The Western Cape Health and Wellness MEC, Mireille Wenger, said the sustained demand for healthcare services highlighted the vital role healthcare workers play across the province. 'Each call and each hospital visit represents a person in crisis. We are deeply aware of the emotional and physical toll this takes, not only on our staff but also on affected families. Preventing trauma is a shared responsibility.' Wenger urged residents to continue practising road safety, avoid abusing alcohol, and treat healthcare workers with respect. 'A safer province is only possible when we all do our part. Thank you to our EMS and hospital teams who worked throughout the long weekend, and for the care and commitment you continue to show our residents.' The province expressed its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones who lost someone on the roads this weekend. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
