Road users on the Gauteng freeway network are from November 2 eligible for a 60% reduction of their historic e-toll debt in arrears, the SA National Roads Agency (Sanral) said on Sunday.

This once-off discount applies to all unpaid e-tolls levied on Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project (GFIP) roads from December 3 2013 up to and including August 31 2015.

The new e-toll dispensation announced by Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa in May is being phased in and changes have been made to the electronic systems to ensure a seamless transition, said Sanral’s head of communications, Vusi Mona.

Among the changes that are already in place are a uniform rate of 30% per kilometre for light vehicles and a 50% reduction in the monthly maximum for registered account holders.

Road users with outstanding e-toll debt incurred from December 3 2013 until August 31 2015 now have six months to settle their accounts, or make payment arrangements.

“This is not an amnesty or a debt write-off. It is a special discount offered to road users in terms of the new dispensation. Road users can contact the dedicated toll free number 087 353 1490 or send a sms to 43360 with their ID number to find out how much they owe," said Mona.

“They can then pay their dues over the counter at all First National Bank branches, or at any FNB ATM, or via the internet or EFT.”

Detailed information on all payment options available can be found on the special website www.less60.co.za.

Mona said the best option for road users is still to register for e-tags and benefit from the reduced tariff and a monthly maximum that has been cut in half from R450 per month to only R225, for light vehicles, since the beginning of July.

“Government has listened to concerns from Gauteng road users about the affordability of the e-toll fees and responded by reducing toll fees and making it easier for those who do not have an account with Sanral to settle their debt,” he said.

News24.com