Some private scholar transport operators in Mahikeng, North West, have suspended operations after the provincial Department of Transport began confiscating their vehicles over a lack of required permits.
The operators, who mainly use seven-seater vehicles, say their cars are being impounded because they do not have the relevant Professional Driving Permits (PDPs). They are now appealing to the department to assist them in obtaining the permits instead of seizing their vehicles.
Operators’ representative Ofentse Mokhuane said the situation was threatening their livelihoods.
“We want the department to address our concerns and speak to us so we can resolve this issue. We are losing money, and at the end of the day, we’re going to lose our cars. We are trying to get at least a permit. We are not fighting with any department. We just want to work and we want to work in peace,” Mokhuane said.
He added that the operators are seeking a meeting with the MEC for Transport to find a solution that would allow them to continue operating legally.
The suspension of services has also affected parents who rely on private scholar transport to get their children to school. Some have expressed frustration and concern about the disruption.
Thapelo Mocumi, one of the affected parents, said the lack of transport has placed a heavy burden on families.
“You have to go to work and also take your children to school. There is traffic, and it will affect us greatly when there is no transport,” Mocumi said.
Parents and operators alike are now calling on the Department of Transport to intervene urgently and provide support to help operators comply with permit requirements, warning that prolonged disruptions could have serious consequences for learners and working families.