Presenting a progressive 2009 budget statement to the Gauteng Provincial Legislature on 6 August 2009, MEC Bheki Nkosi spelt out the department's achievements, its challenges and priorities for the year ahead.
The MEC recommitted the department to carrying out its mandate as well as ensuring that all programmes devised years before are carried through and implemented. These include, amongst others, the following:
* Converting the radius-based permits to route-based operating licenses, establishing the Transport Operating License Administration Bodies (TOLAB's) and the implementation of the Taxi Recapitalisation Programme.
* Continuously work on maintaining the existing road networks through operations such as road marking, repair of guard rails and pot-hole repair. This will also include improvements to major roads in the province.
* To work on improving access roads and tarring of streets in the previously disadvantaged areas as part of the 20 Prioritised Townships Programme
* Prioritise all transport infrastructure related to the 2010 Soccer World Cup and ensure a lasting legacy.
* Expanding the Driver's License Testing Stations, the booking system and improving access to these and other related services.
* Assist municipalities implement the Bus Rapid Transit systems and other integrated public transport network projects.
* Encouraging public participation by holding public hearings in relation to government's plans of introducing tolled-routes.
* Prioritising the development of small, micro and medium enterprises
The department has been allocated a budget of R8,5 billion for the financial year 2009/10 which is a substantial increase from the previous year's budget allocation of R6, 460,900 billion.
Key budget allocations for the 2009/10 include the following:
* An estimated R5,2 billion for the continuation of the Gautrain project.
* A further R1,5 billion is reserved for the road infrastructure.
* R1,6 billion for public transport and operations.
* Approximately R300 million for administration.
The MEC stressed that the realisation of these goals will go a long way in improving the quality of life for residents and accelerate the creation of a competitive city region. These plans are also expected to create employment opportunities, enable easy mobility of vehicles and participation in the economy by those in the margins of society.
Issued by: Department of Roads and Transport, Gauteng Provincial Government
11 August 2009
Source: Department of Roads and Transport, Gauteng Provincial Government (http://www.gautsafety.gpg.gov.za)
