DA calls for better efficiency at licensing facilities in Ekurhuleni

In his response to questions posed to Council, the MMC for Community Safety, Cllr. Frans Moko, indicated that there were over 127 000 applications for learners licenses in the Metro in the 2019 calendar year.

This according to a press release by Jaco Terblanche (DA Shadow MMC for Community Safety in Ekurhuleni).

“What is apparent is that a majority of these license applications are derived from centres that are in close proximity to more metropolitan suburbs such as Kempton Park, which saw 16% of the total applications. This has resulted in huge congestion and lengthy queues within these centres. Conversely, statistics show that in less developed areas, such as Langlaagte, see very little license applications, and therefore relatively low foot traffic,” Terblanche said.

Part of the problem is that the online booking system used by the licensing departments, does not accommodate those residents without access to computers or smartphones, leading them to believe that they have no option but to physically apply at the bigger licensing centres, thereby leading to the congestion of certain facilities.

The DA calls on the Metro and the Provincial Government to bridge the digital divide and make urgent provisions for those without online access by providing booking facilities at all licensing facilities and Customer Care Centres. In doing so, drivers license related appointments could be more equitably allocated across the Metro and ease the congestion of some of the major licensing centres.

“In addition, it is critical that all vacancies within licensing facilities be filled as soon as possible to ensure that they function at maximum efficiency for the benefit of the Ekurhuleni residents,” Terblanche concluded.