PUBLIC transport drivers were honoured at the Driver Appreciation Day that took place at the Pyramid Conference Centre on October 14.
City of Johannesburg’s MMC for Transport, Clr Nonhlanhla Makhuba, took time to recognise the special and important role played by public transport drivers.
“This day is about gratitude and appreciation. We are gathered here just to say thank you to all our public transport drivers. We acknowledge the role you play in literally moving our people from the early hours of the morning till late at night. You all have a big responsibility to ensure our safe arrival at all times. Our lives and those of our families are in your hands,” said MMC Makhuba.
She also acknowledged the role played by the drivers in driving the economy.
“Today we appreciate your contribution to our economy. You transport the budding entrepreneur, the worker, senior citizens to collect grants, prospective employees and students and learners. Without your assistance these people would not be able to actively participate in the economy,” she said
The drivers from Metrobus, Putco and the Orange Farm Taxi Association were also urged to put safety first at all times. “Safety is of utmost importance in your industry. Lives are at stake at all times and we therefore urge you to always think safety first. Habits need to change, behaviour needs to change and so do attitudes. Speeding, reckless overtaking, non-roadworthy vehicles and not wearing safety belts should be a thing of the past,” noted MMC Makhuba.
She encouraged more female drivers to join the public transport industry to break the stereotype that such an industry is designed for men.
MMC Makhuba said, “I challenge the Transport Department to initiate a Women Driver Programme. We need more women to get behind the wheel and transport our people.”
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