Scholar transport drivers from Mitchells Plain, Khayelitsha, Samora Machel and Philippi have initiated the conversation and need for a formal governing body to represent all scholar transport drivers in the Western Cape.
Also read: Traffic accident claims the lives of five schoolchildren in Cape Town
After the tragic accident that claimed the lives of five school children on AZ Berman Drive in Mitchells Plain, drivers responsible for transporting scholars in Mitchell’s Plain, Khayelitsha, Samora Mache and Philippi expressed their intention to suspend work until a meeting with transport authorities can be arranged to address their concerns.
As per News24, the Minister of Mobility in the Western Cape, Ricardo Mackenzie, met with the representatives to seek a viable resolution.
During their meeting, Mackenzie stressed the significance of complying with all regulations and obligations associated with scholar transport. He also encouraged the formation of a unified entity that would advocate for the drivers’ goals and interests moving forward.
According to Denver van Aarde, who chairs the Mitchell’s Plain Scholar Transport Association, they have already made contact with 20 transport groups spanning various areas within the Metro.
He added, ‘The response we got thus far has been overwhelming. We are very glad for the steps the government and the transport board are taking.
‘We have already reserved the name Western Cape Scholar Transport Board.’
Also read: Man driving children in Mitchells Plain crash to apply for bail
Van Aarde revealed that there are a significant number of drivers operating without proper registration. To address this issue, a three-stage strategy has been devised to engage the scholar transport community.
This approach encompasses providing financial assistance for acquiring newer vehicles and reclassifying existing ones.
He explained, ‘Many of our vehicles are not viable for us to apply for and get permits.
‘A lot of our drivers don’t even know if their vehicles fall within the year model where they can register to be scholar transport drivers.’
The association aims to engage the government in discussions regarding potential exemptions, considering specific criteria such as roadworthy certificates, proper loading practices and the possession of all necessary driving documentation.
According to legal regulations, bakkies are prohibited from transporting individuals for financial gain.
It should be noted that unregistered vehicles can be confiscated according to section 87 of the National Land Transport Act (NLTA). To combat the presence of unauthorised learner transport operators, the Transport Priority Committee will develop comprehensive enforcement plans, as stated by Mackenzie.
In the Mitchells Plain area alone, there are approximately 250 drivers, although not all of them are affiliated with the Mitchells Plain Scholar Transport Association. The mentioned number primarily represents those identified within a WhatsApp group.
‘What we are doing now is urging the drivers to join up with us and come as one so that we can speak as one. To see the loss of our children this way, it is very sad when you are in the industry,’ said van Aarde.
The government’s primary objective is to prioritise safety among drivers in the transportation industry. While extensive efforts are being made to establish a safer environment within the sector, van Aarde emphasises the importance of parental responsibility in ensuring the safety of their children by thoroughly examining the vehicles used for transporting them.
Also read:
City officials meet with families of children lost in Mitchells Plain accident
Picture: SDI Productions / Getty Images
