The South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) has expressed strong support for an upcoming initiative that will introduce priority lanes along the N2 highway, set to benefit minibus taxis, Golden Arrow buses, and MyCiTi buses. The proposed Strategic Public Transport priority lanes on the N2 outbound will run from the CBD all the way to Jakes Gerwel Drive.
The proposed initiative was discussed during the Mini-Bus Taxi Task Team’s meeting on Tuesday.
‘IT WILL ALLEVIATE CONGESTION’
According to Gershon Geyer, the Deputy chair of SANTACO in the Western Cape, the council believes the new lanes will greatly enhance the operation of public transport services. Additionally, Geyer noted that the plan is an important step in addressing the daily challenges faced by minibus taxis and other public transport providers, who often struggle with congestion on busy routes.
“We would welcome a lane that is explicitly for the taxis. It will alleviate the problem in the city in the morning with the congestion. Our aim is to get people to work in an easier and faster manner,” said Geyer.
Work to make this possible, is earmarked to start in the next three months.
‘EXCLUSIVELY FOR PUBLIC TRANSPORT’
“The lanes will be for exclusive use by public transport vehicles, including Golden Arrow and MyCiTi buses as well as minibus taxis. This is a joint undertaking between the City and Western Cape Government, and the concept design is scheduled to commence in February 2025. An overview of the number of operating licenses granted to date indicated that systems were functioning well, and a commitment was made to conducting further route research for greater insights into transport demand,” explained Rob Quinas, the head of transport in the City of Cape Town.
Furthermore, the introduction of the priority lanes comes at a crucial time, as demand for efficient, reliable public transport continues to grow in the region.
The Western Cape receives an average of about 185 000 new residents each year, which results in increased traffic on major routes.
