A new tuk-tuk transport service aims to reduce the parking problem on Stellenbosch University’s (SU) main campus.
This is according to Dylan Hayward, owner and founder of Mullé Tuktuks. Mullé Tuktuks will be up and running in early April, according to Hayward.
The tuk-tuk service will operate mainly on the SU campus in order to “assist students to get to class”, stated Hayward.
Currently, Mullé Tuktuks owns five tuk-tuks. The business aims to expand its operation towards the end of 2021. PHOTO: Heléne Leonard
Mullé Tuktuks will aim to help students who are not able to access parking on campus, according to Hayward.
“I have parking at my residence, but sometimes I commute from home and then I struggle so much to find parking,” said Nienke Burger, a Sonop resident who studies at SU.
Mullé Tuktuks is a good way to improve the parking and transport situation at SU, according to Hayward.
“We want to cover all the areas where students would need a lift. We want to make it fun and easy for students to get around,” said Hayward.
Mullé’s tuk-tuk services will be priced according to the current Uber rates in Stellenbosch. According to Hayward, it is difficult to determine the exact price range.
“I plan on setting up rates similar to Uber currently, but hopefully as the business grows, it will become cheaper. I’ll have to compare the rates to the way Uber currently rates in peak hours and non-peak hours,” stated Hayward.
Hayward developed an app for safety purposes. The safety of passengers is his number one priority, he said.
“The app will ensure both the driver as well as the user to know where they are going and it [the app] makes it more accessible,” said Hayward.
There will be cameras in the tuk-tuks, and those operating them are experienced drivers who were hand-picked for the job, according to Hayward.
“The less I have to walk on campus, the better. I would make use of Mullé Tuktuks,” said Tayla Fourie, a postgraduate LLB student at SU.
Mullé Tuktuks aims to work collaboratively with SU, according to Hayward.
“I would like to approach SU to collaborate with me to help students get to class on time, and help staff and students walk less in the near future,” stated Hayward.
Dylan Hayward, owner and founder of Mullé Tuktuks, aims to operate around SU campus for the most part. The tuk-tuks will also operate on Friday and Saturday evenings. PHOTO: Heléne Leonard