The MyCiTi bus service on Turfhall Road is an exciting project that aims to revolutionize public transport in Cape Town. It will connect travellers from Mitchells Plain and Khayelitsha to Wynberg and Claremont through dedicated bus lanes and improvements to roads and transportation facilities. The project, set to be completed by July 2027, involves extensive construction and is being carried out in phases to minimize disruption to local residents. Despite the disruptions caused by construction, the project promises to provide accessible, dependable, and affordable public transportation, shaping a new era of connection and mobility in Cape Town.
Cape Town is taking a practical approach to urban mobility by prioritizing the repair and upkeep of existing infrastructure, enhancing public transportation services, and alleviating traffic congestion. The city has allocated over R3.5 billion for the 2024/25 fiscal year, with a focus on the MyCiTi bus service, road maintenance, and nonmotorized transport options. The budget aims to ensure timely, safe, and economical mobility for residents, making it an excellent model for other cities to follow.
Cape Town’s commitment to road safety was highlighted by Councillor Rob Quintas during the Global Alliance of Cities for Road Safety’s summit. The city has implemented various traffic calming initiatives, constructed speed bumps and pedestrian crossings, and expanded its public transportation network. Innovative approaches, such as variable speed signs and unique traffic signaling systems, have been used to improve safety. The city is dedicated to creating safer roads and promoting shared responsibility among all road users.
Cape Town is facing a rising gang and drug crime crisis, along with a lack of efficient passenger rail services. Mayor Geordin HillLewis is calling for stronger action against corrupt elements within the South African Police Service (SAPS) and advocating for greater law enforcement powers for municipal authorities. He also wants to form a joint working committee to accelerate rail devolution, with the potential benefits of efficient trains saving lowerincome households up to R932 million per year and contributing R11 billion to the economy annually. The City is committed to addressing these pressing issues and advocating for its residents.
Project Exodus is a yearly initiative that offers free vehicle inspections to intercity public transportation providers during the holiday season. Professional vehicle examiners scrutinize every aspect of the vehicles, ensuring their roadworthiness, and recommending any necessary repairs. Vehicle checkpoints are also established around public transport exchanges for added safety measures. This operation aims to ensure safe travels for all passengers, marking the City’s dedication to secure and efficient public transportation.
A trailblazing alliance between the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) and Eris Property Group is ushering in a fresh chapter in public transportation and student lodging in Cape Town. Set to benefit more than 3,000 students, the R1.4 billion joint investment development of Cape Town Station will offer a muchneeded enhancement to the city’s student accommodation options and invigorate the surrounding area with upgraded retail spaces.
Cape Town’s public transportation system has long been a source of frustration for its residents. An ongoing dispute between the city’s government and the national government regarding the devolution of passenger rail services has added to the city’s woes. City officials believe that devolving rail operations to competent metros would improve transportation significantly and bolster the local economy. However, the national government has yet to grant their request, prompting the City of Cape Town to consider legal action.
The Urban Mobility Directorate in Cape Town has announced plans for a new bus facility in Makhaza, Khayelitsha. This is part of the city’s ongoing efforts to expand and enhance public transportation options, with a focus on improving connectivity throughout the metrosouth east region.
The United Nations Global Road Safety Week has just concluded, and the City of Cape Town’s Urban Mobility Directorate is taking steps to improve road safety in the Khayelitsha Township. The project involves building walking and cycling lanes that are universally accessible, which will promote safety for all road users, especially pedestrians and cyclists.