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eThekwini maps revised plan for Go!Durban

eThekwini maps revised plan for Go!Durban

The Citizen6 days ago
A REVISED map of getting the multi-billion rand Integrated Public Transport Network (IPTN), GO!Durban, working has been tabled before the eThekwini Municipality executive committee by the eThekwini Transport Authority (ETA).
ETA acting director Nelisiwe Zama said the revised strategy marks a decisive move forward toward delivering a 'world-class public transport system that works for all'. Among the revised plans presented by ETA was that in sections where dedicated roadways have not yet been completed, GO!Durban will operate a scheduled bus service in mixed traffic.
These services will use the same GO!Durban-branded fleet and integrated fare management system, ensuring consistency across the IPTN. Municipal spokesperson Gugu Sisilana said, 'This revision is a direct response to the delays, which, among others, included the 2021 impasse in the minibus taxi and bus industry negotiations, the need to better align with National Department of Transport priorities, and the financial and operational lessons from earlier phases of developing the system. Once the remaining dedicated roadways are completed, these services will transition accordingly.'
Also Read: 'eThekwini remains in good financial standing'
She said that the revised strategy realigns the programme with national frameworks, accelerates short-term delivery, and places greater emphasis on inclusive stakeholder participation and long-term sustainability.
'ETA will now proceed with the implementation of a thorough engagement process with all key stakeholders. This will include regional briefings and discussions with affected mini-bus taxi and bus operators of phase one routes of the network,' said Sisilana.
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Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading Nelisiwe Zama, acting director of ETA, said they will initiate an in-depth engagement process with all relevant stakeholders, including regional briefings and discussions with affected minibus taxi and bus operators specific to phase one routes of the network. On Thursday, eThekwini councillors noted the progress made towards the operation of the C3 corridor to achieve an integrated transportation system and preparations for other corridors, namely the C1 and C9, and the inner city to follow suit for an overall improved transport system within the municipality. Other key points raised for noting were: Transition from the Tactical Adjustment Framework to a refined corridor-based Go! Durban Implementation Strategy that aligns with the National Department of Transport (DoT), Treasury, and operator expectations. The municipality is preparing for the transformation and devolution of the Public Transport Operator Grant (PTOG), with plans to integrate existing subsidised services and legacy operators into the Go! Durban corridors. The refined Go!Durban implementation strategy, with corridor-based rollout, operator negotiations, and quality bus service activation model, will be approved. The commencement of structured negotiations and identification of affected operators for Corridors C3, C1, C9, and Inner City Distribution System, to enable compliant Vehicle Operating Company formation and contracting Councillors also approved the call for continued engagements with the provincial and national DoT and National Treasury regarding: (a) disbursement and milestone compliance. (b) institutional support for contract devolution and PTOG integration. 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