Eastern Cape MEC for Transport, Safety and Liaison, Ghishma Barry, today praised all stakeholders that were involved in the conclusion of a historic agreement for the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro integrated public transport system a few days ago.
MEC Barry expressed her gratitude during the debate of the Transport Minister, S’bu Ndebele's budget speech in the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) in Cape Town this afternoon.
"This debate takes place a few days after a historic agreement was concluded between government, the bus and taxi industries in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro, which marked a turning point in the provision of public transport services to our people.
"Taxi operations, as we know it, will be phased out, because they become part of an integrated public transport system, which will be operated on specific timetables and will make use of a variety of vehicle sizes from articulated buses, standard buses to minibuses as part of the ANC led government's efforts to provide a safe, reliable and affordable public transport system," said Barry.
She appreciated the impact this agreement would have in the improvement of the region's public transport system in preparation for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. She further briefed the NCOP about other public transport developments, which include the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa's coach refurbishment programme to improve its rolling stock fleet in the Eastern Cape.
A total of 17 coaches have been targeted for refurbishment. 10 coaches will be destined for the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro to be used during the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup. Special train services will be made available between Uitenhage and Port Elizabeth on match days. Renovations at North End station, which is closer to the new stadium, have been completed.
She announced the successful implementation of the national Department of Transport's special regulations for the 2010 FIFA World Cup (from the National Land Transport Act 5 of 2009), where Eastern Cape public transport operators were advised to visit the district offices of the department to apply for the special operating licences for this event.
"Through our provincial 2010 transport master plan, we are committed to reduce delays through traffic control, improve road conditions and promote alternative routes, promote and facilitate the use of public transport, improve safety of all commuters," said Barry.
Media contact:
Ncedo Kumbaca
Cell: 082 44 22 388
Source: Department of Transport, Eastern Cape Provincial Government
