Gauteng Transport Dept tests scholar transport vehicles, finds almost all non-compliant

The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport has described the levels of non-compliance from scholar patrol operators as ‘unacceptable’.  

During a recent pre-test inspection at Jabulani Testing Station in Soweto, 48 out of 51 scholar transport vehicles failed inspection.

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Among the issues found by inspectors were missing or expired license discs, invalid or absent driver’s licences or driving permits, torn seats, faulty seat belts, cracked windscreens, worn-out shock absorbers, defective door handles, and missing wheel nuts.

“Only three vehicles were released back to the public; the rest are remaining in our pound and are non-compliant, unroadworthy, and are not safe to be returned to our roads," said spokesperson for the MEC of Roads and Transport, Lesiba Mpya. 

He said that the department is engaging the industry to ensure the vehicles are safe for public transport. 

Mpya emphasised the importance of regular checks and certification.

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“Operations are continuing, and we have activated vehicle testing centres to receive large-scale vehicles. We are working with private vehicle testing stations to increase capacity.”

To listen to Mpya in conversation with 702 and CapeTalk’s Africa Melane, use the audio player below: