Transport woes a nightmare for locals

Tsakani – Bus commuters in Tsakani were relieved to learn that 10 additional buses have been secured.
This was during a commuter meeting with the MMC of Public Transport, Alco Ngobese, at the Tsakani Bus Depot.
Commuters demanded answers from the metro after learning the Brakpan Bus Company (BBC) services will be discontinued on February 28.
Residents claimed there was no prior communication about the challenges the company faced leading to the termination of services.

Chairperson of the Bagibeli Bus Association Jabulani Mkhonza, who represented commuters, said the company can’t discontinue their services before the metro finds an alternative.
“These buses have been operating in the area for more than 20 years; they can’t leave us hanging without any explanation.
“In March 2020, we submitted a memorandum to the metro raising our concerns regarding the state of the buses, but we never received any feedback.
“Now they drop a bomb on us without any consultation. In the meantime, what must we do?” he asked.

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He added they were confused as the company continues to sell tickets past the set termination date.
Residents said using buses is cost-effective, as they only have to pay a minimum of R9, while taxis cost R20 a single trip.
In response, Ngobese said last year in April the council took a resolution to shut down BBC as the company is bankrupt and lacks management.
“The metro has been pumping money into BBC, but we haven’t seen any results over the years.
“We understand that commuters rely on the services. We are working tirelessly to ensure the matter is resolved in due course. The process is already in motion. The workers who previously worked under BBC have been absorbed by the metro,” he said.

Ngobese added they plan to add more buses in the next financial year.
“Before the addition of the 10 buses, we had about 129 busses, with 44 of those not being operational due to maintenance and repair issues.
“We are also looking at the option of leasing buses instead of buying them with a five-year motor plan because when you lease, you at least don’t have to worry about the issues of maintenance,” he explained.

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