A NEW public transport by-law which aims to regularise public transport in the city was approved by the EXCO on 20 June0 for final publication in Ezasegagasini Metro and the Provincial Gazette.
According to the municipality, the by-law currently awaits Council approval and, once adopted by Council, it will come into effect six months from the date of publication. The six-month implementation period allows the municipality to facilitate training on the by-law with officials who are mandated to enforce it.
Tozi Mthethwa, head of communications for the municipality, said the objective of the by-law is to regulate the operation of mini-bus taxis, buses and metered taxis in eThekwini. This includes preventing public transport vehicles stopping outside of demarcated areas at public transport facilities.
Also, no unroadworthy vehicles may be parked in a public transport facility. Repairs may not be undertaken at these facilities either, while the washing of vehicles is only allowed in demarcated areas at public transport facilities.
Bus drivers are only allowed to pick up passengers at a demarcated bus stop, and when stopping for passengers, they must stop the bus as close as possible to the kerb to enable the person to get in.
The by-law has made provisions for metered taxis, which includes the requirements to operate. This includes the meter being fitted inside the taxi to ensure the recorded fare is plainly visible at all times by the passenger. ‘Tuk-tuks’ and other novelty vehicles are also covered in the by-law.
“The behaviour of drivers, conductors and passengers is also covered by the by-law. This includes prohibiting the use of force, intimidation, threat or other means to prevent a person from using a public transport vehicle of their choice or to prevent the driver from taking on passengers. This covers the behaviour of passengers boarding and disembarking of public transport vehicles, queuing at public transport facilities and prohibiting the carrying of dangerous or offensive articles,” she said.
Mthethwa said there are strict penalties in place for those found in contravention of the by-law.
