Gauteng’s department of roads and transport plans to establish an overarching transport authority at a time when the province is also looking to integrate its transport systems.

This was revealed by roads and transport MEC Ishmael Vadi at the launch of the department’s five-year transport implementation plan, which feeds into a 25-year integrated transport master plan.

Mr Vadi gave no details on the proposed agency. However, when asked about Gauteng’s e-tolling scheme, he said road improvements and the Gautrain provided reasonable alternatives for those who could not pay the toll.

“We have significant road improvements to accommodate people who are unable to pay for the tolls. The R55 which runs parallel to the highway has been totally upgraded. Before the end of this month, we will open this dual carriageway, which will take you to the city of Pretoria,” Mr Vadi said.

Among Gauteng’s plans was a 50-year programme to reorganise OR Tambo International into an aerotropolis and, in the process, integrate aviation, and the Gautrain, Bus Rapid Transit and freight systems. Bicycle infrastructure would also be introduced. The province aimed to implement the “one province, one ticket” initiative aimed at integrating Gauteng’s transport systems through a single ticket and payment system.

Mr Vadi said the 25-year plan was expected to result in more integration in Gauteng.

“This is a short-term intervention plan to alleviate blockages and improve the road network and public transport system.”

The plan followed public recommendations received between July and September.

“If we always seek a road-based private transport system it won’t work. We have to move towards public transport and e-tolls will make the move quicker,” said Gautrain Management Agency CEO Jack van der Merwe.

“Any big city in the world has to have a focus on public transport and the sooner we get into the behavioural attitude of adopting public transport the better it will be for us ,” he said.

 

 

Source: http://www.bdlive.co.za