eThekweni tracks success

In the past, the eThekwini Municipality were concerned that vehicles in their R1.2 billion fleet, were being damaged and lifespans shortened by reckless driving and abuse. Following a R35 million investment in the C-track satellite-monitored system these vehicles can now be tracked in the event of a theft or hijacking and for the monitoring of unauthorised use of the vehicles.

eThekwini Municipal Manager, Michael Sutcliffe says, “Due to the fact that the C-track system tracks speed, harsh braking, excess idling, battery tampering and other infringements, we could manage our fleet more effectively and ensure we have more driver control, monitoring and correction.”

‘No-go zones' like shopping malls, can now also be programmed into the system, ensuring drivers do not waste time and money. “The new system will result in vehicles being used more effectively and serviced more timeously, with the emphasis on management functionality,” says Sutcliffe.

90% of fines incurred by municipal vehicles were speeding-related and speed is considered to be the main contributor to serious accidents. According to Sutcliffe, “We hoped that costs incurred from fines and accidents would be considerably reduced if speeding was cut down. Fuel costs would also be reduced as extra and unnecessary trips would be eradicated.”

Specific details of accidents can be tracked on a second-to-second basis, including the speed of the vehicle before impact and at the point of impact. The detailed information is admissible in court cases and internal disciplinary hearings.