Transport Month: Joburg shifts into gear with e-buses, universal access
'The impact on communities will be substantial; transport is one of the fastest-growing sources of greenhouse gas emissions in South Africa.'
In October, as South Africa observes Transport Month, the City of Johannesburg is shifting its focus towards universal access, particularly for people with disabilities, alongside the introduction of e-buses. The city, along with Metrobus and partner departments, is set to host various activities including road safety campaigns, commuter engagements, electric bus demonstrations, and training sessions aimed at supporting passengers with disabilities.
Mbongiseni Masuku, from the City of Johannesburg, emphasized that their primary goal is to promote universal access, ensuring inclusive transport networks that directly benefit disabled individuals.
The city also seeks to enhance road safety by instituting reward systems to acknowledge and incentivize top-performing public transport drivers. Masuku highlighted that these efforts include educational workshops, outreach programs at the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre and the Transport Museum, all aimed at promoting transport-related careers among the youth.
The transition to e-buses is a significant step, as it will eliminate tailpipe carbon dioxide (CO₂) and nitrogen oxide (NOₓ) emissions, thereby improving air quality in densely populated areas and contributing to South Africa's climate change targets. This shift will have a substantial impact on communities, reducing the social and financial burdens associated with transportation while minimizing related health impacts and fuel costs.
Collaboration is key to the city's strategy. This Transport Month, the focus is on "Working Together Through Public Private Partnerships". Metrobus has launched a comprehensive program dedicated to improving road safety, promoting greener transport, enhancing accessibility, and leveraging digital innovation. These initiatives are designed to take place throughout the month, celebrating the drivers who keep Johannesburg moving and ensuring that transport networks are not only efficient but also inclusive and sustainable.
Written by urgent.news from The Citizen's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
