Metrobus services are in for an about-turn, which will include new buses and new routes.
The City of Joburg has begun the process of reviewing Metrobus operations in a bid to ensure that its services are safe, reliable and affordable. The public are invited to comment.
The move is in line with the city council’s Strategic Integrated Transport Plan Framework, which outlines the long-term vision for all modes of public transport in the city.
According to Metrobus spokesperson, Ester Dreyer as the greater Joburg area expanded, Metrobus had to adapt its operational plan to include new areas, according to passenger needs.
She said Metrobus currently faced the challenge of an ageing fleet with some buses being over 13 years old.
Buses needed to be replaced and maintenance and repair costs were exorbitant, Dreyer said, adding that the city council had advertised a tender for 175 ‘green’ buses, that used alternative fuel – a combination of diesel and gas – to reduce harmful emissions.
The city council has prepared a detailed Metrobus Operational Plan that sets out the proposed primary, secondary and feeder routes covering the majority of its jurisdiction as well as levels of service required on each route.
A copy of the draft Metrobus Operational Plan can be downloaded from the City of Joburg’s website or collected from the respective regional offices.
Comments must be submitted by 14 July and must be submitted in writing to the Executive Director Transport, P O Box 31923, Braamfontein, 2000 or emailed to MichelayV@joburg.org.za.
An information session will be held for the public at 9am on the 24 May at Lecture Theatre A, Metro centre, Braamfontein.
