The eThekwini Municipality has signed an agreement with representatives of the minibus taxi and bus industries, paving the way for the launch of the GO!Durban Corridor 3 (C3) in December 2026.
The agreement establishes a framework for integrating affected public transport operators into the new system, which will connect commuters travelling between Bridge City in KwaMashu and Pinetown.
The recent signing took place at the Durban Exhibition Centre as part of the City's Transport Month programme, held under the theme: “Building the Network Together”. The municipality also unveiled the new GO!Durban bus that will serve the route.
C3 will be the first corridor of GO!Durban -- eThekwini's Integrated Public Transport Network -- to become operational. The service is expected to improve access to employment opportunities, schools, healthcare facilities and other essential services.
The milestone follows the council's approval of the GO!Durban Business and Operational Plans on 1 September 2026, which set out the roadmap for bringing the network into service.
In his address at the signing ceremony, City Manager Musa Mbhele said the municipality is committed to providing residents with safe, reliable and affordable public transport.
“The GO!Durban C3 Process Agreement represents important progress in strengthening collaboration between government and the public transport industries as we work towards a network that serves our communities and supports economic participation,” Mbhele said.
The agreement sets the framework for how the bus and minibus taxi operators affected by the corridor will take part in the new system. Under it, services will be delivered through formal Vehicle Operating Companies contracted to the City.
Chairperson of the eThekwini Metro Taxi Council, Mathula Mkhize, described the signing as a significant achievement for the public transport sector, reflecting progress made through ongoing engagement, consultation and partnership between the municipality and industry stakeholders.
As part of the programme, delegates visited Westrich Station at Midway Crossing, where they observed the fare collection system, including the tap-in fare gates passengers will use. They also viewed feeder services in operation and visited the facility where 'I AM GO!' badges are issued, offering a first-hand look at how customer registration works.
Before passenger services begin, the municipality and its partners will finalise operating contracts and complete the testing and commissioning of infrastructure, vehicles and systems.
C3 forms part of Phase 1 of the GO!Durban network. It will be followed by corridors C1, C9 and C2, as well as the Inner City Distribution System. – SAnews.gov.za
