THE Democratic Alliance in eThekwini has rejected a decision by the ANC to increase public bus fares by eight per cent.
At a full Council meeting on 30 March, the ANC-led city agreed to the price hike, despite strong protest by the opposition. The DA maintains that it is unacceptable to expect residents to pay more for a poor service and a system in financial dire straits.
According to Councillor Nicole Graham, she has been waiting for answers around Tansnat and Durban Transport since requesting them in January this year.
The questions attempt to establish the outcome of the enquiry into the monies owing between the city and Tansnat, which have not been made public. “It is not clear whether the rental for the buses is being paid and the financial situation is being resolved. What is owed and to who? Is it being paid?” asked Graham.
The questions, posed to Acting City Manager Dumsile Nene and eThekwini Transport Head Thami Manyathi, also attempted to establish whether the ANC is actually paying for their repeated use of buses for party political events.
“Over one hundred buses were sent to Johannesburg for the ANC’s January 9 celebrations, and the Acting City Manager has not been able to indicate proof of payment for this. The repeated questions are simply ignored, raising questions as to whether the public is footing the bill for transport to ANC events,” said Graham.
Graham said in addition the Durban Transport service had deteriorated rapidly.
“Buses frequently break down or run out of diesel, forcing commuters to pay more for additional services. The city’s residents most in need of an efficient service are being let down. In light of this, it is unacceptable to expect the city’s commuters to pay more.”
“The DA will continue to fight for reasonable fares, transparency and a better deal for Durban’s residents. The Durban Transport mess falls squarely at the door of the ANC,” she said.
Do you want to receive news alerts via WhatsApp? Send us a WhatsApp message (not an sms) with your name and surname to 060 532 5535.
You can also join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
