To raise awareness for Transport Month, the MEC for public works, roads and transport, Thulasizwe Thomo, and MEC for community safety, security and liaison, Jackie Macie, joined Buscor commuters and a number of other stakeholders on Tuesday, October 20.

According to Thomo, in the early hours of the morning the group boarded a new electric bus recently deployed by Buscor in a pilot project.

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The trip followed its regular route from the Mbombela terminus, through Masoyi and White River to Hazyview. The MECs aimed to highlight the importance of public transport in improving mobility, fostering economic activity and reducing traffic congestion on our roads.

He said that while no entity is immune to challenges, the Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport is happy with the partnership established with the bus operator, and will address issues faced by commuters.

Macie said the commute was an opportunity to gain first-hand knowledge of the public’s experience. He added that he wanted to show support to the bus operators, who bear a heavy responsibility for their passengers’ safety. “We want to encourage them to comply, as they transport a lot of people on a daily basis.”

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The MECs engaged with the commuters and listened to their concerns, saying they will intervene where they can.
Macie said it is important for operators and commuters to work together.

“If neither side is happy, their trips will be challenging. This can be avoided if they learn to work together.”

Buscor’s executive chairperson, Dr Norah Fakude, said Transport Month is a time to address safety measures. “We do not only look at the measures during this month, we do it daily, although this day is set aside to do more,” she said.

Fakude noted during the trip that there were a number of potholes that need to be repaired.