KANYE – Some local leaders say time is ripe for motorists to be allowed to personalise their vehicle registration numbers.
Some neighbouring countries have long introduced the system, which has earned them enormous revenue through payments for the service.
Normally motorists who want personalised number plates pay more than what normal registration numbers attract.
Ntlo ya dikgosi chairperson, Kgosi Puso says while there might be some obstacles the move is a welcome development.
“Personally I think this is a welcome development. The country will be able to increase its revenue base by allowing those interested to personalize,” he said.
According to Kgosi Gaborone, personalizing number plates may curb bad behavior on roads and stimulate pride in motor vehicle ownership.
“If someone has printed their names on the number plate, they will not want to be associated with bad driving, they have their identity to protect,” he said adding that this will also employ a sense of responsibility on drivers.
Communication and Transport Minister, Mr Frank Ramsden said government is open for ideas on how this can be done.
“We have not yet come to that stage and maybe we might look into it, to be honest we have not given it a thought,” he said.
He said the issue was discussed 2005; he however regretted that it was later shelved, adding that government did not go deep into it. He said his ministry welcomes new ideas from the public.
MP for Ngamiland, Kgosi Tawana said the initiative is long overdue.
“During these times of economic turmoil this can earn the country much needed revenue. This is a good source of income for the country.
This can be achieved by lobbying the ministry of transport to come up with the initiative.
He said a premium can be charged for those willing to personalize their registration numbers. “This can only help in revenue generation,” he said.
BDP legislator, Mr Botsalo Ntuane said the personalization of motor vehicle number plates is long overdue.
“Many countries have already done this and we are behind,” he said.
He also indicated that this is a source of revenue which can then be used to fund road maintenance projects.
“I personally support the idea,” he said. BOPA
Source [BOPA]
