eTHEKWINI Municipality, in commemoration of Transport Month, is working on a number of programmes that will improve the city’s transport system. The recently launched Integrated Rapid Transport Network (IRTN) includes programmes that ensure commuters receive a safe, easily accessible and affordable transport network that is environmentally friendly, integrating motorised and non-motorised transportation.
eThekwini has embarked on an infrastructure upgrade programme which is set to change the face of the city. This infrastructure upgrade involves road construction and rehabilitation, rail and port improvements.
Exciting projects have already been launched in the first phase of the IRPTN such as the new additional fleet of buses, construction of cycle lanes and the cashless travel card.
“We would like to stress the importance of adhering to the rules of the road. Road fatalities such as Field’s Hill Road accidents continue to be a major concern to us. The public can be assured that Metro Police will continue with its enforcement operation to check the roadworthiness of trucks travelling on that route and on other roads in the eThekwini Municipal area. Government is steadfast on reducing road fatalities, which remain unacceptably high. Community Road Safety councils have been established to identify high accident areas and implement interventions such as traffic-calming measures like speed humps, traffic circles, visible road signage and traffic lights,” deputy mayor, Nomvuzo Shabalala said.
The City has arranged a series of education campaigns to raise awareness on public roads to promote road safety during this month. “We recently visited Soldiers Way long distance taxi rank to raise awareness and educate the public on road safety and will continue to visit other taxi ranks during the month. As we are heading towards the festive season, we encourage motorists to buckle up, do not drink and drive, take regular breaks when driving long distances and to refrain from speeding,” she said.
