Transport News
Transport sector faces major BBBEE overhaul with tougher compliance rules
The integrated transportation sector is set to face some of the most strict broad-based black financial empowerment (BBBEE) requirements in the country, following proposals unveiled by Integrated Transport Sector BBBEE Charter Council chairperson Kgomotso Selokane on May 16. Speaking during an address at a transport sector engagement session on the draft Transformation Fund concept paper, in Midrand, she revealed that the council had actually settled a significant modification of the sector’s transformation codes, setting higher limits and getting rid of mechanisms formerly used by companies to preserve compliance.
Fuel levy hike to place heavier burden on South African consumers – RFA
Transport will become more expensive and consumers will pay more after Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana on May 21 announced a 4% increase in the fuel levy, of 16c/ℓ for petrol and 15c/ℓ for diesel. This will be directly felt by consumers, as transporters cannot absorb increases without detrimental effects on their bottom-line, impacting on their business sustainability, says industry organisation the Road Freight Association (RFA) CEO Gavin Kelly.
RFA commemorates 50 years
Industry organisation the Road Freight Association (RFA) held its yearly Convention from May 23 to 25, in KwaZulu-Natal, a forum for industry discussion and strategic planning and to commemorate the Association’s 50 years of service to its members and the broader South African economy. Since its inception in 1975 as the Public Hauliers Association, evolving into the RFA in 1989, the organisation has been involved in shaping policy, bolstering industry standards and providing support to its members.
Progress on Bayhead road upgrade enhances port access
State-owned Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has reported that the Bayhead road rehabilitation project – a strategic infrastructure initiative at the Port of Durban – continues to progress on schedule, marking a significant milestone in its efforts to enhance port access and improve road safety. Since its start in June, the TNPA says, the project has advanced “seamlessly” from Phase 1 into Phase 2, with construction activities proceeding efficiently with minimal disruption to port logistics operations.
Gauteng to roll out digital twin and tamper-proof vehicle licence plates
Gauteng will present a new digital vehicle licence plate system that will track each numberplate from manufacture to fitting and will consist of information of the owner and vehicle while the numberplates themselves have a series of tamper-proof functions. The goal is to ensure transparency throughout the worth chain and to guarantee that law enforcement officials can use the numberplates to track and trace vehicles to figure out whether the plates have been truly issued, said Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) command and control and integrative systems research study group leader Dr Sihle Sibiya during the launch and presentation on June 5.
Sanral engages SMMEs ahead of R500m Free State road upgrades
The South African National Roads Agency Limited (Sanral) has shared what its R500-million investment on Free State roads will entail over the next year. Having started with projects in the province in April, Sanral’s investment in road construction and maintenance will go a long way in bringing much-needed job opportunities for small businesses and local community members in Jacobsdal, Koffiefontein, Jagersfontein and Trompsburg, where various projects are under way.
Transport sector shows signs of stabilisation amid ongoing structural challenges – index
After declining for 8 consecutive months to reach a revised index level of 113.5 in January, the most affordable level given that December 2022, the Ctrack Transport and Freight Index (TFI) increased in each of the 3 months to April to reach an index level of 115.4. The latest edition of the quarterly TFI was compiled in partnership with independent economist Elize Kruger.
Rehabilitation works on Golden Highway resume after protest action
The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport has welcomed its specialist LoneRock Construction resuming rehab works along the Golden Highway, or R553, after demonstration action led to a temporary blockage recently. LoneRock Construction, as a primary contractor on the task, has responded positively to specific needs made by little- and medium-sized business, with engagements being ongoing.
Stabilisation in freight system, but no ‘kumbaya moment’ yet
South Africa’s efforts to restore its logistics infrastructure have seen it stabilise the system, but not yet execute a big leap forward. This was the consensus among members of a panel speaking on the topic at the SAPICS 2025 conference held in Cape Town last week.
JRA to invest R2.8bn on the city’s roads over the next three years
The Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) has reported a substantial milestone in the city’s commitment to robust infrastructure development, validating a capital injection of R2.8-billion over the next three financial years. The agency keeps in mind that this substantial allowance, as detailed in the City of Johannesburg’s 2025 Budget Speech, highlights a devoted focus on improving and modernising crucial roadway, stormwater and bridge infrastructure to improve movement, and safety, as well as foster sustainable urban development.