Tourism operators put a new slant on road rage
In an aim to raise awareness of the dire situation of the tourism industry, some of its members took part in a slow drive protest yesterday from White River to Mbombela.
What started off as one man’s mission developed into a more than 60-vehicle protest drive on the R40 road. Hylton Langley, a White River-based tour operator, took the initiative to organise the protest drive to highlight the struggle the sector is facing.
Signs on vehicles made mention of the double standard regarding taxi capacities versus tour operators not being allowed to operate in parks for guided tours.
Another issue named was the massive amount of money being lost daily due to the tourism sector basically coming to a standstill.
Langley had said that maybe 20 vehicles would be joining from their starting point at Casterbridge Lifestyle Centre.
But before he knew it, support for the protest had surpassed his expectations. The more than 60 vehicles that participated included open safari vehicles, minibuses, bakkies and sedans.
With hazard lights flashing and hooting, the convoy made its way to Mbombela, receiving some support from other road users along the way.
Without being requested, a police vehicle also arrived and acted as an escort during part of the drive.
The convoy drove past the government complex and through town to the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency offices, where Langley handed over a memorandum to Musa Mahlangu, acting executive manager for tourism.
Another drive is planned for 22 July. – The Lowvelder