Community has its say

The meeting was held on Tuesday to obtain input from individuals and stakeholders to further the metro’s vision of achieving an integrated public transport network where customers have a seemless journey across all models of transport.

Presenting the plan, MMC for public transport, planning and provision, Councillor Thumbu Mahlangu said the plan will help promote efficient use of correct modes for freight transport.

He added that it will also help in the development of safe freight transport routes which will assist in cutting down on other transport.

He explained that the metro understands that people travel for different reasons and that they want to improve the condition of vehicles that they use every day to ensure passengers’ safety at all times.

“We want to fight against the other challenges that the passengers are faced with, such as the availability of public transport, travelling costs and the reliability of their transport,” said Mahlangu.

He also assured the community that his department will be working together with the public transport owners which, he believes, will create more job opportunities.

One of the concerns raised by the residents was getting the opportunity not to be left out once the plan has been approved and needs to be implemented.

They appealed to the metro to train the youth to gain the needed skills that will help them get jobs when the project starts.

Answering the residents’ appeal, Mahlangu encouraged the youth to get the skills before the start of the project.

“The metro also encourages the young people with different skills to partner and form their own cooperatives,” said Mahlangu, adding that suggestions and questions about the plan will be appreciated.