The Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project (GFIP) has after years of postponing reached the stage where money is charged for the privilege to use the improved road infrastructure.
Stick and carrot
It is clear that SANRAL is employing the stick and carrot approach to make motorists pay. Register and get your e-tag, set up your account and you will pay the least amount possible each month in e-toll fees (the carrot). It is also the easiest way for SANRAL to get its hands on your money. Fail to register and pay within seven days and you will end up paying up to three times the normal rate and risk fines or worse (the stick). With the holiday season upon us, it is important to note that all visitors to Gauteng will also have to pay e-toll (find details here).
Non-payers
So what will exactly happen if you do not pay? You will be billed at the highest rate and if you still refuse to pay it will lead to fines, the levying of administrative costs and prosecution which may involve a court order. The Opposition to Urban Tolling Alliance (OUTA), is currently asking for donations to help with the legal battle once the first non-payer is taken to court. This will be a critical case and if OUTA is successful, will render the paying of toll fees unnecessary. You will have to decide if not paying the e–toll fees in protest against the system is worth the risk.