In a bid to integrate the provincial transport system, Eastern Cape Department of Transport held a two days Public Transport Summit at Pine Lodge in Port Elizabeth on the 25 to 26 October 2012.
The summit formed part of the department’s October Transport Month Campaign and its main objective was to gain input from the stakeholders in preparation for the Provincial Integrated Public Transport Master Plan (PIPTMP) currently being developed by the Department.
It was also intended to lay a roadmap that will transform public transport in the province and lead to the integration of bus, taxi and train services for the benefit of all public transport users
Delivering a keynote address the MEC for Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Mcebisi Jonas, urged stakeholders to monitor and hold the government accountable, and that it was also important for the transport sector to critically examine its readiness.
"Our competitiveness hinges on the efficiency of the transport system as it must not look good simply on paper, but rather look good on its implementation," said Jonas.
He added that the summit hoped to create a forum to discuss the desired future of the public transport system in the province and come up with strategies for that vision to be achieved. “Over the next two days delegates will engage in discussions and presentations regarding alternative vehicle technology for rural areas, improvement to public transport for a greener province, as well as funding models for the initiatives presented,” he said.
Transport, Roads and Public Works MEC Thandiswa Marawu said the summit was the fulfilment of the promises she made during her presentation during last year's policy speech relating to the PIPTMP.
"It is gratifying to observe the presence of different stakeholders, particularly the bus and taxi industry, in order to share experiences and business models that can transform the rudimentary approach of doing business," she said.
Marawu said the government had levelled the ground for participation in the economic transformation process of the country, including the transport sectors. "In moving forward, we will hear less about buses, taxis and trains and we will talk about the transport industry and we call upon all role-players to gear up for the integrated approach and start working together," she added.
