POLOKWANE – Public transport operators have exactly less than a month to convert their permits to operating licenses, warns Traffic Department Spokesperson, Joshua Kwapa.
According to a press statement released by the Limpopo Transport Department, public transport operators (minibus taxis, buses, metered taxis, tourism operators, scholar transport operators, shuttle services and organised parties) have until 7 December to convert permits issued under the Road Transportation Act 74 of 1977 and the National Land Transport Transition Act, No 22 of 2000 to operating licences as informed by the National Land Transport Act No. 5 of 2009.
To successfully convert their permits into operating licences, operators need to bring their original permit, a certified ID copy, tax clearance certificate and R300 for the application fee. Taxi operators must also submit a letter from their taxi association confirming their membership.
“This will ensure that they obtain an operating licence which will have route descriptions and is valid for five years. After five years public transport operators will be expected to renew their operating licence,” says Kwapa.
He says the department is confident the majority of public transport operators have already converted their permits.
The MEC for Transport and Community Safety, Nandi Ndalane said: “We are calling on public transport operators to use this opportunity and comply with the Act. This process is aimed at improving the regulation of public transport operations.” Public transport operators who are yet to convert are advised to complete this exercise at their earliest convenience.
“Public transport operators are further warned that no conversion shall be entertained after the closing date,” Kwapa continues.
At the time of going to print, Kwapa was not available to confirm what action would be taken against operators who fail to renew their permits by the cut off date.
riana@nmgroup.co.za
