While government is prepared to listen to concerns, it is important not to lose sight of the rationale behind the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project (GFIP), which among other things is aimed at reducing congestion on the province’s roads, says Deputy President, Kgalema Motlanthe.

The deputy president said the projects aim at reducing traffic congestion on Gauteng roads which negatively affects the economy.

“As we discuss this project and consider the various suggestions on the funding model, it is necessary that we remind ourselves of its rationale,” he explained at a consultation involving members from Business Unity South Africa (Busa) and members of the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, among others. Cabinet ministers including Economic Development minister, Ebrahim Patel and deputy finance minister, Nhlanhla Nene, as well as newly appointed Transport minister, Ben Martins, were also in attendance.

The e-toll system which was supposed to start on 30 April was halted by the North Gauteng high court. The Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) was then formed, chaired by the deputy president. The IMC resolved to hold consultations on the matter with stakeholders.

“We have taken note of the comments made by the public and various organisations and express our appreciation for various views and solutions offered,” he adds.

The main aspect that needed to be addressed was how to reduce congestion on the road and make road transit more efficient.

According to the government, the user pay-model was seen as the most equitable option. “Let us not lose sight of the fact that in the end our highways must be decongested,” he added.

In her opening remarks, Busa vice president, Advocate Brenda Madumise, said business was pleased with the top-level engagement between business and government, but added that a lack of trust between government and business was of concern.

“In South Africa the levels of trust are low. This issue of a lack of trust within South Africa particularly between government and business is one that has been raised over the past decades. It is an issue that persists,” she said.

She added that business is however aware that the only way to resolve the challenges that face the country is if it works together with government.