Following the announcement by President Cyril Ramaphosa on the days social grants will be paid, a number of industry bodies called for the relaxation of the hours public transport vehicles are allowed to operate.
A similar request was made by the Minister of Social Development, Minister Lindiwe Zulu.
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“Having considered Minister Zulu’s request and the presentations made by various industry bodies, including the taxi industry, I have decided to amend the Public Transport Directions in order to accommodate grant beneficiaries,” said Minister of Transport Fikile Mbalula.
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“Effective from tomorrow, March 30, until Friday, April 3, buses and taxis will be permitted to operate from 5am until 8pm in order to cater to the transportation needs of society’s most vulnerable.
“The exercise of social distancing by all those using public transport must be observed and enforced.
“We will issue further directions in this regard.”
Grant recipients are required to carry their identity documents and South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) cards when travelling on public transport, to assist law enforcement efforts.
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