Use Transport Month to change perceptions

Government has indicated it will, throughout the month, highlight its achievements in delivering integrated transport systems, road safety initiatives, and public transport and infrastructure improvement, among other things.

An integrated transport system is the way to go, so full marks to the Transport Department for this one. This dream will hopefully come to fruition one day.

We all know that Car-free Day doesn’t work: you cannot leave your car at home on 20 October while there is no other reliable means to get around.

But imagine hoping onto a shuttle, then a Rea Vaya bus and later connect with the Gautrain to catch a flight, on time. This isn’t pie in the sky if decision-makers apply their minds to it.

Transport Month is a noble idea and also an opportunity to focus on the real causes of road tragedies.

The start could be to outlaw the concealment of speed cameras and ensure they are visible and accompanied by warnings.

The occasion could also be used to promote self-discipline and good driving habits, and teach motorists that signalling is important and that red lights mean stop.

Parents also need to be educated about the dangers of allowing their children to stand against the dashboard, without seatbelts on.

Most importantly, during Transport Month, there should be no place for self-promotion by politicians who take public transport, hoping to make front page news – and get some votes in the next election.