Photo by: Duane Daws
CAPE TOWN – Zimbabweans and South Africans crossing the border at the Beitbridge border post might be filled with a little festive cheer on hearing that that things are running smoothly and efficiently this week despite an additional 17 000 travellers being processed there daily.
A statement released by the South African Revenue Service (SARS) on Tuesday, said proceedings at the traditionally over-burdened transit post in Limpopo had been improved.
More than 31 000 people were going through the clearance processes at Beitbridge every day this week, an additional 14 000 travellers on the norm, but “the process has been smooth and efficient albeit slow, tedious and time consuming”, said Sars.
Border Control Customs Unit had “put plans, structures and systems into place to make things easier for travellers, especially the aged, pregnant women and children”.
“This strategic intervention had seen almost 200 staff members volunteer to provide assistance and support at ports of entry like Beitbridge and Lebombo, among others, to ease the pressure and waiting time period for travellers and other visitors,” said Sars in a statement.