In the days leading up to the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, observed on December 3 annually, the metro invited organisations that care for and work with people with disabilities to a presentation, to share the transport vision of the city.
The metro is currently developing an integrated transport system which will offer all commuters access to various modes of transport, to be operational in 2016.
More than 300 people with special needs attended the session to hear MMC for Roads and Transport Clr Thumbu Mahlangu describe how the new Integrated Rapid Public Transport System (IRPTN) was designed to include features like ramps, bridges and lifts, signage for people in wheelchairs, audio buttons, tactile paving and special lettering to enable universal access to services.
Speaking at the event Mahlangu said, “A city that can provide affordable services that are safe, easy to use and accessible to all its citizens is a city that is serving its people and the metro’s transport service is moving towards this goal.
“We are proud that our transport system will be used by all people, including people with disabilities, the elderly, people who are physically and visually impaired and generally those who have special needs.”
The new public transport service, IRPTN, will integrate buses, trains and taxis to ensure that residents have access to all the public facilities within the metro, including hospitals, clinics, schools, universities, places of work, shopping centres, transport hubs, the airport, parks, etc.
Along with upgrading existing ranks and stations, the metro is introducing a Bus Rapid Transport (BRT) system with dedicated road lanes and stations to prioritise the needs of commuters.
“Ekurhuleni is developing its transport system to ensure that its infrastructure supports the long term growth of its people and businesses.
“Access to integrated transport facilities that are safe, reliable, efficient and affordable will be one of the key factors that will boost our local economy,” explained transport planning and provision HOD, Yolisa Mashilwane.
Mashilwane explained that some of the universal access features of the IRPTN include: tactile and audio signage at intersections, stops and stations; ramps that allows people in wheelchairs or with prams to board buses smoothly; bridges and lifts at busy intersections to assist people with disabilities to cross; signage with raised lettering and at a height for wheelchairs; well-lit and CCTV monitored stations.
The metro will continue to invest in infrastructure and facilities that ultimately support economic development, job creation and poverty alleviation.
It is reported that the new system will be operational in 2016 and will span the length and breadth of the municipality with an extensive network and complementary and feeder routes.
The network will be made up of five phases, with the first route running from Tembisa via Kempton Park, OR Tambo International Airport and Boksburg, ending in Vosloorus.
