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The Eastern Cape Department of Transport is urging scholar transport operators to reconsider their plans for a total shutdown in the province scheduled for Thursday, May 2nd. Labeling the proposed action as illegal, the department warns that individuals involved will face legal consequences.
Highlighting the potential repercussions, the department emphasizes that a shutdown would impede people’s right to movement and negatively affect numerous taxi operators. Many taxi operators rely on private contracts with parents to transport learners or have agreements with companies to ferry their workers, activities unrelated to the government scholar transport program.
Addressing concerns about payment delays, the department reassures operators and the public that funds are available, with technical challenges being actively addressed. While some delays stem from operator boycotts of contract signings earlier in the year and challenges with SARS, a significant portion of legitimate invoices has already been settled.
Further payments are scheduled, with the department pledging to meet the May 15th deadline for outstanding payments. Stressing the illegality and immorality of any shutdown, particularly during social grant distribution, the Eastern Cape Provincial Government affirms its commitment to ensuring the law is upheld and urges cooperation from all parties involved in the payment process.
