Etolls: More phases unless we act 

The Democratic Alliance (DA) notes the announcement today by Transport Minister Dupio Peters regarding the start date for e-tolling in Gauteng. 

It is a sad day for this province and for South Africa that the widespread public opposition to this system has been blatantly ignored by government. 

And this is just the beginning. 

The Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project (GFIP) is expected to cover around 560 km of the freeway network in Gauteng. Considering that the first phase of this system only covers around 185km, the network is set to more than double. 

Future routes are expected to be along the N14 Krugersdorp Highway, sections of the M1, the N14 to Pretoria, N3 to Heidelberg, the R59 and sections of the N12. 

Whether directly or indirectly, the majority of Gauteng residents will eventually pay the cost of e-tolling. Residents who are not regular road users will feel the pinch through increased food and living expenses. 

I know that many people are feeling very angry about this announcement today. I encourage you to take this frustration to the ballot box next year and vote out the government that has enforced this system on an unwilling province. 

I will continue to fight this system both now and if elected as Premier in the 2014 elections. This will include current and any future phases of e-tolling. Together we can bring an end to this injustice that has been enforced on Gauteng today.

Statement issued by Mmusi Maimane, DA Gauteng Premier Candidate, November 20 2013

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