The AA states the allocation of funds contradicts the ‘user pays’ argument.
In a press release, the association says Gauteng MEC for Finance, Barbara Creecy, announced the allocation of R123-million to Sanral for the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project (GFIP).
“Providing this shortfall funding is an admission from government that the system is not working as many motorists in Gauteng boycott the system, despite being offered reduced rates as incentives,” states the AA.
According to the association, the allocation places the burden of funding on all taxpayers in the province, regardless of GFIP usage or even car ownership.
“Making a 50% (R123-m) contribution towards the shortfall in funding for the e-tolling system, nullifies the argument that it is a ‘user pays’ system and contradicts government’s refusal to consider more reasonable alternative funding models,” the association notes.
It adds that the allocation is a clear indication from government that the system is now, and will continue to remain, unpopular and unsupported among Gauteng motorists.
“Sanral’s argument for the e-toll system throughout has been that this is a user pays system, which relieves all other road users from the burden of cost.
“This allocation nullifies this argument as there will be many thousands of Gauteng residents who do not use the GFIP system but who will, indirectly through their taxes, be funding it,” the association states.
The AA adds that it supports initiatives to improve roads in all provinces, but that funding these improvements through e-tolls is not the answer as the unnecessary administrative costs place an extra burden on the already over-stretched motorists as well as the South African taxpayer.
It concludes by stating: “This allocation puts to rest any argument over whether this system is being supported or not.
“Having to fund such a large amount to cover a shortfall is a strong indication that it is not.”
Spokesman for Sanral, Vusi Mona, says the Gauteng Provincial Government’s contribution of R123-m is part of the new dispensation.
“The contribution will be made to National Treasury, not to Sanral,” he says.
National Treasury will then make an allocation to the Transport Department to cover the shortfall.
“We would like the public to know that the new dispensation is the product of engagement between government and Gauteng that has brought relief through the implementation of a uniform rate of 30c per kilometre for light vehicles as well as other advantages.
Mona adds that the treasury has, in the past, allocated money to GFIP which was R5.75-billion in 2012.
“We would also like to remind the AA that tolls are universally regarded as the most fair, equitable and sustainable system as only the user pays,” he concludes.
