GO!Durban project continues on track

Construction on various aspects of the Integrated Rapid Public Transport Network (IRPTN), known as GO!Durban, is on track said eThekwini Transport Authority head, Thami Manyathi.

Manyathi was presenting a progress report on the IRPTN, which aims to improve public transport in the city, to the Executive Committee.

He said the improved transport system formed the foundation for development in the city.

“The city’s IRPTN provides the structuring element for the integration zone and supports the spatial development framework and urban network strategy. It is designed to link major residential and undeserved areas to places of economic and social activity including the CBD and urban hubs.”

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He said the focus of implementation is on phase one, which includes corridors one, two, three and nine.

C3, which is the route between Pinetown and Bridge City in KwaMashu, is the first corridor planned to go live.

“Progress on C3 includes 23km of 27km completed. The sections at Dinkelman Road and Crossroads are delayed, but this will not affect the start of operations.

The pilot station of Regent Street, New Germany is expected to be completed in June. The platforms for 14 stations are completed with the top structure to be completed in November 2017.”

Manyathi said an interim depot is being constructed in Pinetown, pending the completion of the main depot in Bridge City. Construction of stage one of the Bridge City terminal is underway.

eThekwini Mayor Zandile Gumede praised the work done so far and urged the unit to keep up the good work to improve the public transport system.