Gauteng wants one transport

Can a transport authority transform the notorious minibus taxi industry in Gauteng? That is the hope of the Gauteng government as it begins its consultative process for the formation of an authority that would integrate the province's transport system.

@Glyn Spencer via 123RF

Transport industry guests gathered yesterday to map a way for the formation of an authority that would eliminate fragmentation in the province's system.

One major agreement among delegates was that the minibus taxi industry should play a significant role in the new entity. Premier David Makhura said the new authority would help redefine the role of the taxi industry and enable the sector to provide a more business-oriented service. "Bringing the industry into the mainstream is going to require them to rethink their model. They have to rethink what it means to operate a transport business."

At present taxis transport over 60% of people using public transport in the province.

Transport MEC Ismail Vadi wants a minibus taxi industry that can provide a measurable service. "The taxi industry can professionalise operations by changing driver behaviour. Once the transport authority has been established we will have more coordinated enforcement," Vadi said.

Source: The Times