36th Southern African Transport Conference Solutions To Public Transport Challenges in South Africa By Mwanyepedza Robert

Introduction The main aim of this presentation is to highlight the solutions to the challenges in public transport sector. The current problems that South Africa is facing are a result of a poorly integrated transport system and lack of coordination between different public transport planners. Before 1994, the society was characterized by societal marginalization, fragmentation which resulted in the separation of people from their workplace. In order to address this, the government, through the Department of Transport, drafted a white paper on National Transport policy in 1996 (South African Government Policy, 1996). The aim was to provide, “ safe, reliable, effective, efficient and fully integrated transport operations and infrastructure which would best meet the needs of freight and passenger customers.

Overview of Public Transport Sector in South Africa Over the years there has been increases in the number of people who use public transport. The number of people who travelled using taxes increased from 59% to 69%, by buses increased from 5.8% to 9.9% and by train also increased from 16.6 to 20.2% from 2003 to 2013 (NHTS, 2003 : 2013). In order to meet this rising demand, the government has been increasing its spending on transport infrastructure. Approximately R166.7billion has been spend at improving the state of airport and navigation system, taxi recapitalization programme, improving the Gauteng Rail Project and the improvement of passenger rail system (DoT, 2013) Since there is an increase in number of travelers, hey is need to provide solutions for a reliable, safe and affordable public transport.

Solutions to public transport sector Sustainable transport system: The global economy is facing fragile ecosystem that consumes nonrenewable resources which are depletable and scarce and the transport industry consumes about 28% of non renewables resources (Chiras, 2012). A sustainable transport system which is economically, socially and environmentally friendly can be achieved through inventing engines that consumes less fuel and conducting R&D on non carbon based fuels reduces negative effects upon the environment. chemically stored electricity (batteries and fuel cells)

Solutions to public transport sector Using Modern Technology For Easy Mobility In The Public Sector: Technology makes public transport smarter, convenient, safe, affordable and efficient Uber is one of the companies providing easy mobility but they is need for the whole taxi industry to adapt to current technology through purchasing new vehicles that are technologically advanced. Improving rural transport systems: There is need for continued maintenance and construction of rural transport infrastructure. Community Transport Efficiency In State Owned Transport Companies (SAA, SANRAL) Ensure Transparency and accountability to reduce corruption on state funds Cost cutting strategies and charging economically efficient fares

Continuation.. Introducing inexpensive, efficient and reliable Rail Public transport: The introduction of high speed electrified train on busy routes, that links all cities at lower fares to accommodate lower and middle class earners. This reduces reliance on road transport using private cars which causes congestion. Rail transport must be integrated wth other modes of of transport for it to be efficient.

CONCLUSION South Africa has gone an extra mile as far as public transport is concerned. Its high time the department of transport focus on sustainable means of creating an integrated public transport system that promotes transport infrastructure developments in rural areas, shows transparency in state owned parastals and better utilization of technology to bring convenience and reliability to travelers. END