The Gauteng provincial government has moved licensing services closer to communities, particularly in townships, informal settlements and hostels in Pretoria west with a new smart licensing centre.
“Overall, this initiative has the potential to bring convenience, efficiency, sustainability, and integrity to townships, informal settlements and hostel communities, ultimately transforming lives and contributing to the province's renewal service demands,” MEC for Transport and Logistics Kedibone Diale-Tlabela said on Wednesday.
She was addressing the launch of the smart licensing centre in Atteridgeville, which will expand access to government services, such as licensing services.
“Integrating these smart testing centres into the administration system of the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) and offering services like other testing centres across South Africa highlights a commitment to improving public service delivery and increasing capacity to meet the demands of license renewals and related services,” the MEC said.
The centre provides full online and cashless services as part of the provincial government's commitment to exploring new technologies and process optimisation.
It is estimated that the licence renewal service will take approximately 10 minutes, implying that more people will be serviced in the most efficient way possible.
“This innovative concept is a game-changer in Growing Gauteng Together through the Smart Mobility Plan. The centre is also solar-powered; ensuring that even during load shedding, services will continue to be provided. This commitment to sustainability further underscores the forward-thinking approach of the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport (GDRT) in meeting the needs of its communities,” Diale-Tlabela said
The MEC pointed out that corruption in terms of driver's license renewal is caused by 'runners' who demand payments for booking slots on behalf of residents.
“These operations have ceased to be the order of the day at these smart driving licence testing centres (DLTCs). Here, you come as per appointment, and a law enforcer becomes the centre manager. This approach will assist in mitigating serious issues of corruption, making the process fairer and more transparent.
“The involvement of the Gautrain Management Agency (GMA) in piloting and rolling out these smart DLTCs along the Gautrain line is a promising approach. The positive feedback from customers at the Centurion station DLTC and others demonstrates the potential success of this model,” the MEC said.
She said launching the initiative in Atteridgeville is a testament to the provincial government’s commitment to act and improve the lives of its residents. – SAnews.gov.za
