The Rea Vaya BRT transport system along Louis Botha Avenue will go ahead as planned even though the project has faced backlashes from residents in the recent past.
The project was briefly halted due to various concerns, including complaints from the residents who feel the project will cause traffic along the narrow road.
However, the City of Joburg is confident that this system effectively ferry commuters to their various destinations and provide them with an easy travel options, most likely to Sandton CBD.
MMC Nonhlanhla Makhuba addressed the media at the S-Bend Mural tour on 1 October – beginning of Transport Month – organized by Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) in partnership with the Department of Transport. She said the project has started and it ‘is all system go’ to complete the bus stations. They expect this phase of the project to be fully operational by 2020.
Makhuba explained that they are working with various partners, including the taxi associations, to ensure that the bus system is successful. People will be able to travel on a Rea Vaya bus from Johannesburg CBD to Sandton via Louis Botha along with the various areas including Bramley, Alexandra, and Marlboro.
However, some residents are against this idea. “There will always be people who complain and we will go ahead with the project and enable residents in the City easy travel and an enjoyable transport system,” said Makhuba.
“We are working with various stakeholders to resolve whatever might be a challenge and we aim to roll out the project along Louis Botha Avenue in 2020. The construction of the stations is going ahead and they are currently in progress.”
Ward 74 councillor, Dave Fisher, who was also part of the S-Bend Mural tour, encouraged residents to be patient while the City finishes the project.
Fisher believes this project will be a big improvement in the City’s public transport system but recognises residents’ frustrations as the project has suffered serious delays since it started. “Apparently it’s a good service and I would encourage residents to be patient while the construction restarts. I hope it will be finished and running by the middle of next year.
“There is indeed narrowing of roads, yes, but we need to balance the need for mass public transport with the need for individual cars in line with the international practices.”
Details: Dave Fisher 082 8226070.
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