TRANSPORT PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT IN SOUTH AFRICA

A vital component of integrated development

In South Africa, passenger transport is mostly by private minibus taxis, although there are government subsidised buses in some cites. Minibus taxis are often run by unlicensed operators using unsafe vehicles. Common standards and integration between various modes of transport is lacking. A system of local monopolies has developed, making reform and development of the public transport system a serious challenge.

The new National Land Transport Act requires transport authorities and municipalities to prepare Integrated Transport Plans (ITPs), including a framework for Integrated, Sustainable Public Transport Systems. Both Nelson Mandela Bay and Buffalo City municipalities have completed these plans. The White Paper on National Transport Policy focuses on public transport, which national government is committed to reforming and restructuring. Legislation gives responsibility to Provincial and Local Authorities to undertake reforms and prepare transport plans as part of municipal Integrated Development Plans (IDPs).

Traffic safety is another serious challenge in South Africa, where accidents claim nearly 12 000 lives per year, with a further 36 000 people seriously injured. Accidents are often poverty related and breadwinners are killed. Road accident victims who end up disabled may also lose their jobs and incomes, and families caring for them become impoverished. With an increasing number of deaths per annum caused by traffic accidents in South Africa, it is imperative to improve traffic safety and decrease the number and severity of accidents. To develop an integrated, safe, customer-oriented system and public transport corridors will take time. The short-term ITP focuses on managing current bus contracts, developing appropriate institutional structures and formalising the taxi industry. The long-term goal involves restructuring of the entire public transport system, including commuter rail.

The municipalities have implemented pilot projects, travel surveys and computer models, and reviewed public transport and options to improve its management. 40% of deaths involve pedestrians, so many traffic safety projects in the Urban Programme focus on pedestrian safety.

It is anticipated that an integrated transport system will contribute to economic development, environmental protection, social equity and poverty alleviation. With a regulated public transport system that runs according to a schedule, it will be easier for people to take on jobs that require particular working hours and punctuality. Shift workers also require reliable transport at odd hours. The Integrated Transport Plans of Nelson Mandela Bay and Buffalo City focus on pedestrians and public transport, both of which benefit the poor.