The Gauteng Transport Inspectorate (GTI) has flagged over 100 unlicensed drivers in a crackdown against non-compliance among public transport operators and drivers.
The GTI, in collaboration with the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) and other law-enforcement agencies, conducted enforcement operations across the province’s major metropolitan municipalities under the #RemoveSkorokoro campaign.
Last week, operations targeted high-risk public transport corridors, focusing on roadworthiness, valid documentation as well as driver and regulation compliance.
“During the reporting period, inspectors identified continued non-compliance among public transport operators and drivers. A total of 56 minibuses were found operating without valid licence discs, while 103 drivers were found without valid driving licences.
“In addition, 17 minibus taxis were discontinued after being found to be unroadworthy, posing a safety risk to passengers and other road users.
“Inspectors flagged critical safety issues including defective braking systems, worn tyres, non-functional headlights and brake lights, faulty indicators, and other mechanical faults that rendered the vehicles unsafe for use on public roads,” the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport (GPDRT) stated.
Furthermore, some 809 handwritten Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences Act (AARTO) infringement notices as well as 1278 electronic infringement notices were issued.
MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela has hailed the efforts to keep Gauteng roads safe.
“The sustained flagging of unlicensed drivers in the public transport sector continues to put commuters and other road users at unnecessary risk. We reiterate that this is unacceptable and compromises the province’s road safety efforts. GTI officers will continue to take firm action against those who disregard the law, without fear or favour.
“The GTI, in collaboration with the RTMC and other law-enforcement agencies, will continue to intensify enforcement operations, improve compliance and contribute towards safer roads and a safer public transport system in the province,” Diale-Tlabela said. – SAnews.gov.za
