The Tshwane metro is pushing ahead with its ambitious public transport overhaul in the north of Pretoria.
The overhaul will result in the extension of the Integrated Rapid Public Transport Network (IRPTN) from Wonderboom to Akasia.
Although not part of the current five-year implementation schedule, the Wonderboom–Akasia route is earmarked for development under the metro’s 15-year IRPTN vision.
This route, known as Line 1B, will connect Wonderboom to Akasia and eventually link to Kopanong in Mamelodi through Line 1C, to improve mobility for thousands of commuters in the northern parts of Tshwane.
Strategic public transport development falls under the larger A Re Yeng Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, which is already operational in parts of the city, including Mamelodi, Menlyn, and Atteridgeville.
The metro hopes the extension will not only ease congestion but also boost local economies and transport accessibility in historically underserved areas.
Metro spokesperson Lindela Mashigo said this is part of the metro’s broader transformation initiative to provide safe, reliable, and affordable transport.
“We are committed to delivering accessible and efficient public transport that benefits all communities, especially those who have historically been marginalised,” said Mashigo.
He confirmed that while Lines 2B and 2C are currently under construction, expected to be completed in July 2025, the long-term focus includes northern routes.
These new connections will integrate Akasia and the surrounding areas more deeply into the city’s economic and transport framework.
The IRPTN 15-year blueprint includes:
– Line 1A: Wonderboom to Pretoria CBD
– Line 1C: Akasia to Kopanong
– Line 2D: Denneboom to Mahube
– Line 4: Wonderboom to Denneboom
– Line 5: Centurion to Mahube
– Line 11: Olievenhoutbosch to Pretoria CBD.
Together, these routes aim to create a seamless, integrated network linking northern, eastern, and southern Tshwane to central business and transport hubs.
Mashigo said the IRPTN has been shaped in close consultation with taxi operators to avoid conflict and ensure industry buy-in.
Taxi representatives sit on various joint steering committees through the signed Memorandum of Agreement (MOA).
Taxi industry technical advisors have also been appointed to guide the sector through legal, financial, and operational aspects of the transition to bus operations under Tshwane Rapid Transit.
“This model ensures that former minibus taxi operators are not excluded, but instead become shareholders in the new transport system.”
Once fully operational, the IRPTN system is expected to support around 12 600 daily weekday trips between Mamelodi and the Pretoria CBD via Menlyn, and another 4 500 daily trips from Atteridgeville to the CBD.
“We will ensure that the IRPTN complies with universal accessibility standards, including low-floor buses with ramps, upgraded pedestrian infrastructure, tactile crossings, and clear signage.
“All new BRT corridors, including those planned for Akasia, will feature pedestrian sidewalks and safety upgrades aligned with national accessibility regulations,” said Mashigo.
Construction and future development phases will include traffic calming measures, digital accessibility upgrades, and driver training for handling passengers with special needs.
Mashigo said as part of the rollout, a citywide public education campaign is planned over the next three years.
The campaign will include route access information, service schedules, and support for new users transitioning from taxis to buses.
Mashigo said, “Customer information campaigns are key to helping residents understand and embrace the new A Re Yeng system”.
The inclusion of Akasia and Wonderboom in the IRPTN’s long-term development marks a step toward integrated urban mobility in Tshwane.
If fully realised, the corridor could become a vital link for working-class commuters and help stimulate economic activity in the north.
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