Tshwane residents can look forward to A Re Yeng buses that have full universal access for the disabled, visually impaired or blind people, pregnant women and the elderly.
In a demonstration to show off the A Re Yeng buses’ universal access features, Tshwane mayor Solly Msimanga joined by MMC for roads and transport Sheila Lynn Senkubuge took a short bus ride seated in wheelchairs.
In attendance was also MMC for roads and transport in Johannesburg Nonhanhla Makhuba, players from the Blue Bulls rugby team and universal access expert, Guy Davies.
Davies said it was important for buses to be fully accessible and safe to all people regardless of their physical capabilities.
“Travelling has to be simple and it starts with catering for everyone – people with disabilities, visually impaired or blind people even pregnant women.
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“Some people may want the bus routes schedule and timetables in Braille and we can do that, which is the flexibility we want to bring forward,” said Davies.
Interesting universal access features include the bus “kneeling” and mechanically extending a ramp that allows for easy access into the vehicle, sufficient room and priority seats for people with disabilities.
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The mayor and MMCs got on the wheelchairs and wore goggles that impaired their vision in a bus ride to Loftus Versfeld from Hatfield.
Upon arrival at various stations, Davies said the grid ramps were used as guidelines for blind or visually impaired people.
Senkubuge said efficient, accessible and comfortable transport was important and this final product was impressive and fulfilling as it included everyone and met international standards.
Msimanga said the initiative was yet another milestone in bettering the transport system and encouraging safety and efficiency for all people.
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