**E-Hailing Platforms Clear Roadblocks, But Drivers Left in the Lurch** In a significant development, two e-hailing giants, Bolt and WANATU, have secured their operating licences in South Africa, beating the March 11 deadline set by the National Public Transport Regulator (NPTR). This milestone marks a key step towards regulating the country's e-hailing industry, which has been plagued by safety concerns and violent conflicts with traditional taxi operators. For Bolt, the Certificate of Registration from the NPTR on February 27 is a major achievement. According to Fikile Nzuza-Chunga, Bolt's senior public policy manager for South Africa, the licence strengthens trust and enhances safety for both drivers and passengers. WANATU also confirmed its licence, stating that it had successfully completed the registration process under the new regulations. However, the thousands of drivers who work under these platforms are still in a state of limbo. With the deadline looming, many are worried about the safety risks and potential consequences of non-compliance. Traditional taxi operators often view e-hailing as illegal, leading to intimidation and driver harm. In fact, some drivers have expressed fear of a "war" with taxis if they are not issued permits on time. The Department of Transport has acknowledged that the registration process is slower than expected, and the announcement of licenced platforms may overlap with the deadline. This means that drivers may not have enough time to finish their applications, leaving them vulnerable to penalties of up to R100 000 ($5,700) for non-compliance. While Uber has applied for its licence, it has yet to receive approval. The uncertainty surrounding the e-hailing industry in South Africa raises concerns about the safety and well-being of drivers and passengers alike. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the government will address the challenges facing the industry and ensure that drivers are not left behind. In the meantime, drivers like Dalitso from Johannesburg and Prince from Pretoria are anxiously waiting for clarity on the new permits and registration process. With the stakes high, it's crucial that the government and e-hailing platforms work together to find a solution that prioritizes the safety and livelihoods of drivers.