This is a momentous day for the Gauteng Provincial Government! It is a celebratory day not only for government but also for its people.
Determining from traditional media as well as social media, we know that the people of Gauteng are proud of Gautrain. And, judging from this morning’s patronage, they are also willing to use Gautrain as an alternate mode of public transport.
Understanding the need that exists in Gauteng for an alternate method of public transport, the provincial government has determined fares based on the principle of affordability and are highly competitive compared to other modes of public transport. Fares are sufficiently price-attractive to create a substantial shift from private car use to public transport in the form of Gautrain.
Gautrain will be able to transport commuters each day in all directions providing economic mobility and the convenience of door-to-door commuting. The Gautrain system also comprises a fleet of modern low-entrance buses with comfortable seating, providing feeder and distribution services to and from the Gautrain stations.
The municipal Bus Rapid Transport (BRT) services will also be integrated with Gautrain at many of the Gautrain stations. Commuters, therefore, will not have to experience the same frustrations and delays as motorists associated with escalating traffic congestion.
Seen from government’s commitment to its people, Gautrain is not only about a train. It is about people, emotions and development. It is about people on the move! People who are proud of what their nation can do! People who are part of the development in and around them! Such development include progressive socio-economic development achievements:
- 35 755 jobs were created
- 31 900 jobs were created for local people
- 27 460 jobs were created for HDIs
- 3 090 jobs were created for women
- 202 jobs were created for people with disabilities
Phambile Gautrain, Phambili!
Source: Gauteng Provincial Government
