South Africa’s Uber, Bolt drivers strike over vehicle impounds amid licensing delays

Commuters in Gauteng, South Africa face transport disruptions today, as Uber and Bolt drivers protest vehicle impoundments. The strike, backed by the e-Hailing Partner’s Council (EPCO), highlights mounting frustrations over licensing delays by the provincial transport department.

EPCO revealed that over 21,000 operating licence applications remain pending, while only 9,000 licences have been issued. Despite drivers’ efforts to comply, the two-year backlog has left many unable to obtain licences, resulting in their vehicles being impounded by metro law enforcement.

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“Operators want to follow the law, but they are being failed by the department’s inefficiency,” EPCO said in a statement. The council noted that these impoundments severely impact drivers’ livelihoods and urged authorities to address the backlog immediately.

The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport claims a memorandum was introduced four years ago to speed up processing. However, the backlog persists, leaving drivers unable to operate legally, despite repeated assurances from the department.

Negotiations between EPCO and provincial authorities have yet to yield results. The dispute has now reached the Premier’s office, with the National Department of Transport stepping in. Deputy Transport Minister has promised to address the matter this month.

EPCO is considering escalating protests and taking legal action to secure an interdict against vehicle impoundments. Meanwhile, commuters dependent on e-hailing apps are advised to brace for delays and disruptions as the strike continues.