Pretoria - Transport Minister Sibusiso Ndebele has urged South Africans to make use of public transport to avoid congestion on the country's roads during the World Cup tournament.
"One of the key elements in determining a successful 2010 FIFA World Cup is the use of public transport, which will significantly reduce congestion on the roads and assist fans to arrive in good time for games," said Ndebele on Friday.
Government has invested R40 billion in a new and improved safe and reliable transport system. He said that every stadium was accessible via public transport (either by bus, taxi or train).
"Using public transport in South Africa provides an ideal opportunity for fans to form and cement common experiences across borders in Africa and the rest of the world. So we say to South Africans, get out of your nice cars, use public transport!"
He reminded fans that World Cup ticket holders travel free with Metrorail to and from stations in the vicinities of the stadium.
An inter-provincial and regional road transport system which comprises luxury buses and midi-buses has been put in place for the month long tournament.
From Gauteng, there will be a service for all games in Rustenburg, Polokwane, Nelspruit and Bloemfontein, which will bring fans back to Gauteng straight after the game.
More information on tickets can be obtained from http://www.strictlytickets.com or (011) 245-8611.
