Pretoria - The Select Committee on Economic Business Development has backed calls for rail operations in Gauteng to be integrated so commuters throughout the province can benefit.
Chairperson of the committee Boingotlo Nthebe is leading a week-long oversight visit to Gauteng, where he met the provincial MEC for Transport, Dr Ismail Valdi. The MEC told the committee that Gauteng is facing a challenge in operating two separate rail transport systems - Gautrain and Metrorail.
“Gauteng is the backbone of South Africa’s economy and employs a lot more South Africans than any other province. Millions of our people in this province are moved through the rail systems to and from work daily. That calls for a seamless, quality and efficient rail operation.
“The integration of the Gautrain and the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa’s Metrorail operations can no longer be delayed. Integration is a necessity that should be factored into long-term strategic planning of transport infrastructure projects.
“This administration should and would ensure a quality, safe and reliable public transport system, where there is cooperation from across the board, including taxis, busses and train operations. It is undisputable that public transport is a necessity for sustainable economic development,” said Nthebe.
He said the delivery of quality services should not be according to where one lives.
“All our efforts should be geared towards realising a better life for all, whether one lives in a township or a suburb. There has to be synergy in government so that an improved service is accorded all South Africans.”
Nthebe said the integration of Gautrain and Metrorail operations should be attended to urgently, and that this service should be affordable. – SAnews.gov.za
