Double blow for cash-strapped motorists

WITH fuel prices expected to reach record highs next month, motorists travelling on toll roads will have to dig even deeper as tariffs are set to increase.

While the Automobile Association of South Africa (AA) anticipates petrol prices to cost around R21/litre for the first time, Zululanders will now have to pay R161 in toll fees for a return trip to Durban.

Motorists driving light vehicles will pay R52 at the mainline Mtunzini toll, R15.50 at Mvoti plaza and R13 at oThongathi.

Those driving through the Mandini ramp will pay R8.50, and R22 at Dokodweni ramp.

The latest tariffs will come into effect on 1 March and were released by the South African National Roads Agency (Sanral) this week.

Sanral said discounts offered at specific toll plazas for frequent users, as well as qualifying local users will still apply, with these applications to be made at the toll plaza offices.

The roads agency, however, emphasised that the collection of toll fees allows for a continuous revenue stream to ensure maintenance of roads.

Although the toll fees have increased slightly, many have expressed concern with the negative impact this and the rising fuel prices will have on already-stretched consumers.

A call has been made by the AA for government to find ways to mitigate against rising fuel costs by reviewing the current fuel pricing model and other levies.

'Our economy is closely linked to the fuel price; it is a major input cost in the manufacturing, retailing and agricultural sectors.

'We have noted before that a review of the current structure of the fuel price, as well as an audit of all the elements which comprise the fuel price, should be done sooner rather than later,' said AA spokesperson Layton Beard.

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