Shesha Tuks drive Sandton

Shesha Tuks transport is in demand and have bought eight new Bajaj vehicles to use in and around Sandton.

Operations manager Rhett Esra has received a public permit to license these tuk tuk vehicles on the roads to open up more positions for drivers.

Esra pointed out how popular this form of transportation has become: they have been fully booked, and people are calling in advance to ensure a booking.

Even some parents in the Sandton use the service to send their children to school in the mornings.

He said Shesha Tuks complies with the rules of the road and keeps to a 45 km/h speed limit.

His maintenance plan includes a full-time mechanic that “services the vehicles regularly”.

“The vehicles are safe, fun and affordable to travel within short distances,” added Esra.

He is aware that motorists get annoyed with the vehicles’ speed limit and has received complaints about the tuk tuks slowing down traffic and stopping in certain areas. The tuk tuks are instructed to keep far left and park in designated parking spots and not to interfere with the pace of traffic.

“When tuk tuks were new to the road, metre taxis found the vehicles to be their competition, but realised they are cheaper and offer a different experience. The metre cabs do not find the tuk tuks a threat anymore. Some drivers even pass customers when it is out of their radius,” said Esra.

According to Johannesburg Metro police spokesperson Edna Mamonyane, the police have not received complaints from the public about the vehicles being too slow, but they are “willing to scan the Sandton traffic to see if they are affecting the flow”.

Shesha Tuks are growing and looking for new drivers. Applicants must be over 18 years old, have a professional drivers permit and motorbike license, willing to attend the training programme, and be friendly.

“Drivers are self-employed and really enjoy the vehicles as they get to meet new people and see new places daily,” said Esra.