Cape Town officials have moved swiftly to clarify widespread confusion over a proposed “congestion charge” for the city’s notoriously gridlocked streets. Recent discussions about implementing fees to drive in high-traffic zones during peak hours have sparked intense debate among residents and commuters....Click to Read More >>➤

The conversation gained momentum following Cape Town’s ranking as the ninth-most congested city globally in the latest INRIX Global Traffic Scorecard. As traffic congestion continues to challenge the metropolitan area, city authorities acknowledge the pressing need for sustainable solutions to the growing mobility crisis.

City Issues Official Clarification on Congestion Charge

This week, the City of Cape Town released an official statement addressing public concerns directly. “The City has noted with concern recent media reports causing unnecessary alarm about a ‘congestion charge’ for Cape Town, and would like to set the record straight: this is not something the City is introducing,” the statement emphasized.

The clarification continued with unambiguous language: “A congestion charge is not being implemented now or in the near future.” This definitive position aims to calm fears among daily commuters and businesses worried about additional transportation costs.

Officials explained that media reports had misrepresented a single concept mentioned within the broader Revised Travel Demand Management Strategy. This comprehensive document outlines long-term approaches to reduce traffic problems and enhance urban mobility, but a congestion levy does not form part of its current recommendations.

Public Transport Must Come First Before Any Congestion Charge

The City’s strategy establishes clear prerequisites before even considering congestion pricing. “The Strategy clearly states that the City would not consider or even investigate a congestion tax or charge until public transport is the most reliable and effective option to travel,” the official statement elaborated.

This sequential approach underscores the administration’s commitment to creating viable alternatives before implementing restrictive measures. The inclusion of international congestion management examples in the strategy document was purely for forward-looking consideration, not as imminent policy proposals.

City planners emphasized that only measures appropriate for “the Cape Town of today” will receive implementation priority. The current focus remains on practical, positive interventions that improve daily commuting experiences without financial penalties for motorists.

“A congestion charge in our current system would restrict access, not increase it – which is the opposite of our goal to make mobility more equitable for all Capetonians,” the City noted, highlighting the social equity dimensions of transportation policy.

Residents Invited to Shape Cape Town’s Transportation Future

Capetonians now have an opportunity to participate directly in shaping their city’s mobility landscape. Officials encourage residents to review the complete Revised Travel Demand Management Strategy and submit feedback through the city’s official channels.

“We are proposing practical, positive measures to improve how we get around today, including encouraging remote work and better access to local services,” the City added, outlining the strategy’s constructive approach.

The proposed improvements focus on enhancing existing infrastructure and creating new options rather than restricting movement. Key initiatives include upgrading park and ride facilities to support public transport use, alongside making pedestrian and cycling experiences safer and more enjoyable for all residents.

As Cape Town continues to grapple with traffic congestion challenges, the conversation has shifted from punitive measures toward constructive solutions. The city’s methodical approach prioritizes system improvements before considering any form of congestion charge, ensuring that future mobility decisions serve all residents equitably.