New recruits to improve Metrobus service delivery
New employees trained
We are committed to providing a quality service to all our commuters as well accommodating diversity and disability,” said Yolisa Kani, the Chairperson of the Metrobus Board of Directors.
In a recent press release, the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Public Transport, Nonhlanhla Makhuba, said that the new recruits – 83 bus drivers and 26 artisans (which include mechanics and auto-electricians) – will be undergoing training for the next four weeks to enable them to operate buses and routes effectively. She added that the new employees – who will start work on 1 November and 1 December – have been appointed to deal with the bus driver and technician shortages experienced by Metrobus.
Also Read: Metrobus services accommodate everyone
“We are confident that the recruitment of the new bus drivers and mechanics will assist in improving the overall Metrobus customer service and experience.
Metrobus wants to offer a high-quality and customer-oriented service that delivers a reliable, efficient, comfortable and low-cost urban mobility service,” the MMC said.
To meet current commuter demand, Metrobus has 436 buses and more than 400 drivers, and, as part of the Turnaround Plan, the company will procure additional buses which will, over time, replace the old ones. “As part of this process, 175 new buses have already been purchased,” she said.
Commuters were assured that they will soon be able to buy tickets from more outlets, as the the company is already in the process of increasing ticket outlets to make them easily accessible to all. “We are also looking at selling our tickets in other places such as supermarkets, through auto-teller machines (ATMs) and online platforms. A new cashless fare collection system is also being explored and Metrobus is currently scanning the market to find a suitable system that is tailor made for its needs,” explained councillor Makhuba.
In another attempt to enhance service delivery and etiquette, and to meet road safety standards, bus operators are also provided with continuous training. The company is also working towards reducing the number of buses breaking down and ensuring these vehicles are in a good condition and punctual.
“We conduct Customer Satisfaction Surveys annually to get commuters’ inputs on the company’s level of service, including areas that need improvement. All these interventions are responding to the customer satisfaction surveys conducted by Metrobus,” Kani concluded.
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