Gauteng Transport Department dismisses scholar transport license backlog claims

The Gauteng Transport Department has dismissed claims that it has a backlog in issuing operating licenses for scholar transport drivers. Today, the department issued more than 600 licenses.

This comes as it intensifies its operation, inspecting vehicles that transport learners across the province.

On Monday, National Traffic Police inspected four schools in Katlehong, Ekurhuleni, issuing infringement notices to others and arresting one driver found to be drinking and driving near a primary school.

The Gauteng Transport Department has reiterated its stance on zero tolerance for non-compliant drivers, adding that it was pleased to see an overwhelming number of drivers collect their operating licenses today at the head office in the Johannesburg CBD.

Department spokesperson Lesiba Mpya stated:

"It's not true that we have a backlog; if anything, we are doing very well with pushing applications submitted by scholar transport operators."

He says those that are waiting are from applications made late last year.