Master plan revealed to improve West Rand’s transport sector

The Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela recently hosted a two-day workshop to review the Integrated Transport Master Plan (ITMP25) draft at the Cradle of Humankind Heritage Site’s official visitor centre, Maropeng.

According to the MEC’s spokesperson, Lesiba Mpya, the workshop brought together stakeholders from various sectors to collaboratively review the ITMP25 draft and identify key issues as well as find solutions and set actionable goals for a transport system that is safe, resilient and sustainable.

Lesiba added that the ITMP25 serves as a plan for the provincial government, aimed at delivering a world-class sustainable transport system that embodies the principles of efficiency, competitiveness, and a responsive economic infrastructure network that prioritises public transport.

“The plan acts as a comprehensive blueprint for the development of the provincial integrated transport system, ensuring that it meets the evolving needs of Gauteng’s diverse communities,” Lesiba said.

During her opening, the MEC remarked their objective is to ensure the plan is comprehensive, innovative, inclusive and aligned with the present and future needs of a diverse industry.

“By engaging in this workshop, participants will contribute to shaping a transport system that meets the needs of today’s communities while building the infrastructure and policies required for future growth,” Kedibone said.

Attended by over 200 stakeholders, the workshop comprised officials tasked with overseeing the function of transport planning and land use across three spheres of government, members of the provincial legislature, representatives from neighbouring provinces, transport agencies and entities, industry associations as well as academics and researchers who are specialists in the field of transportation.

Lesiba continued to say that the update of the ITMP25 is based on a legislative framework that demonstrates the province’s commitment to establishing an effective, accessible, safe, affordable and sustainable transport network.

This framework is mainly influenced by the following important central national policies and legislation intended to enhance transport infrastructure and services across the country:

• The White Paper on National Transport Policy 2021
• The White Paper on National Rail Policy 2022
• National Land Transport Strategic Framework
• Supporting Policies and Frameworks
• Constitutional and Legislative Foundations

“This session served as a pivotal opportunity to outline the Department’s capacity to fulfil its policy-making and regulatory responsibilities concerning transport infrastructure plans, aligned to the seventh administration priorities,” added Kedibone.

Participants also had the opportunity to give their insights and engage in an open dialogue to review the draft document, identify key issues, integrate innovative solutions, and establish actionable goals.

“The workshop was a critical step in shaping a transport system that not only meets the needs of today’s communities but also lays the groundwork for future growth. The master plan underlines the amalgamation of public transport and smart infrastructure. The objective is to integrate various modes of transportation to improve commuter efficiency, optimise freight logistics, and promote environmentally friendly, non-motorised transport alternatives. It further aims to devise a blueprint for a transport system in Gauteng that is more sustainable, effectual, and inclusive, that will support continued economic growth in the region, while also reducing negative impacts on the environment,” Kedibone said.

In conclusion, Lesiba said the development and update of the ITMP25 also incorporate key strategies from Growing Gauteng Together 2030 (GGT2030) as well as the Growing Gauteng through Smart Mobility Plan 2020 – 2025, envisaging ‘a seamlessly integrated, socially cohesive, sustainable and economically inclusive Gauteng City Region’.

“A place of opportunity, powered by a growing, innovation-driven economy, transparent governance and active citizenship.”