E-toll hybrid payment plan is problematic: Outa
The Opposition to Urban Tolling Alliance (Outa) said on 9 February 2015 that it feels vindicated by the many positive elements contained within Gauteng Premier David Makhura’s E-toll Review Panel report.
Outa added that its vindication was heightened by the support expressed by the vast majority of people and organisations present at the consultation on Friday in Midrand.
However, Outa said it is also concerned that the compromise hybrid funding model as suggested in the report is “a cure worse than the disease”.
“We have understanding for the awkward position the Gauteng Provincial Government now faces, having to fix a problem that was handed to them by the National Executive,” Outa said.
According to Outa, the suggestions contained in the hybrid funding proposals have significant unintended consequences and high costs to motorists.
“The biggest problem is the Panel’s suggestion to hold onto the ill-conceived and failed E-toll scheme as a major funding mechanism,” Outa said.
“At the same time, even though the suggestion of a national funding model falls outside of its jurisdiction, the panel has downplayed the suggestion of full funding from the national fiscus and the fuel levy.”
Outa commended the premier for a comprehensive job so far.
“Whether he recommend the proposals therein, which largely seeks to contain the costs of the upgrade to the Gauteng residents, remains to be seen,” Outa said.
More on e-tolls
E-toll review panel findings: everything you need to know
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