Latest news with #Gautrain
Daily Maverick
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Daily Maverick
After the Bell: Uber, motorbikes and disruption on the road to transport democratisation
There was virtually no change for 50 years, then suddenly a whole revolution in transport. And it hasn't ended yet; there will be more disruption to come. I am sure that I am not alone in finding that one of the biggest frustrations of driving – along with potholes, people who drive on the wrong side of the road, minibus taxis and traffic in general – is the huge rise in the number of people driving motorbikes. I don't have anything against them. They're providing an important service (including to my home), they're moving the economy and, most importantly, they're getting an income for their families. But what really irritates me is that they're forced to drive while looking at their phones. It means that you are behind them and, firstly, scared for them because they're not paying attention and, secondly, hugely irritated because they're driving so slowly as a result. I was reminded of this when I read a report that Uber is now offering what was always going to be the end point of their disruptions in how we get around. Instead of spending money and wasting space in a car, now, in some places, you can get a ride on the back of a motorbike. You can imagine the advantage of this: it's hugely cheap and so many journeys really involve one customer. It also increases your options. You can spend a fortune and arrive at an event in splendid isolation in an Uber Black, rush to that important meeting in a Comfort, just go to work in a Go, or, if you're strapped for cash (and who isn't!), use their motorbike service. It makes so much sense. So often you see someone using the Bolt service, being driven around in a little orange Qute that isn't even a car. Technically, and legally, it's a quadricycle. You probably already know the difference between the two; it's all about size. But you're still wasting all of that space. And if I was given the choice of a ride on the back of a bike, or a trip in one of those, I'd probably take the bike (so long as it's not the middle of the Gauteng winter). What I find really fascinating about this is that, first, it's following trends elsewhere. When I went to Rwanda in 2017, there were motorbikes carrying passengers everywhere. And the service obviously worked; it was quick and cheap. I'm sure the same thing happens in many other countries. But the second thing is how much disruption has occurred in our transport market in just the past 11 years or so. And how much of that has to do with Uber. Before Uber came to South Africa, the car-taxi industry hadn't really changed in about 50 years. Maybe even longer. Taxis were something you saw outside airports and train stations. You knew nothing about the drive and very little about the car. When Uber came, that way of life was not going to last. And those drivers knew it! They used violence to try to force Uber drivers out. Even quite recently, when I used the Gautrain to Pretoria, Uber drivers refused to come to the station because of the taxi men hanging around there. Last week at Cape Town International Airport, I saw people hanging around shouting 'taxi'. Compared with Uber, where you know so much about the driver, and know the car will be reliable, who would use these taxis? But if no one uses them, why are they still hanging around there? The real point though is how quickly this disruption has happened. Virtually no change for 50 years, then suddenly a whole revolution in transport. And it hasn't ended yet; there will be more disruption to come. It's a really good example of how a whole series of technologies around our phones, GPS, credit card payments and many other things have come together to make a real change in the way in which we move around. But it also reminds us of how new technologies work. They start as something cool and fun for the rich, and often end up as a necessity for the middle classes, sometimes even for those who have very little. Because of the nature of innovation involving information (think X, Facebook, and video and music streaming), often these services are available in a very democratic way when they start. In the past, most new innovations were only for the rich and stayed like that for a long time. No longer. Now you can make a lot more money providing services to everyone. Of course, there are always people who lose out. I fear there will be some attacks on people who drive these bikes. It seems to me almost inevitable that this will happen. I also hope and pray that when these drivers are carrying someone behind them, they find a way to both watch the map on the phone and keep their full attention on the road ahead. DM
The Citizen
26-05-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
Gautrain launches 50% fare discount with new KlevaMova offer
Travelling on the Gautrain has become more affordable for many in Gauteng, thanks to a new discounted fare initiative called KlevaMova. Launched by the Gautrain Management Agency and the provincial Department of Roads and Transport, the product offers a substantial 50% discount on train fares to a wide range of qualifying passengers. The discount is available to individuals living in households with a combined annual income of R350 000 or less, students under the age of 25, learners, pensioners, and recipients of Sassas's disability grant. The discounted tickets are available as weekly, monthly, and return trip products. Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport Kedibone Diale-Tlabela described the initiative as a vital step in making public transport more accessible to vulnerable groups. 'The high cost of travel continues to be a burden, especially for those living on the outskirts of economic centres,' she said. 'By reducing fares, we aim to ease the financial pressure on households and improve access to work and study opportunities.' Also read: Young swimmer makes it to six finals, clinches bronze, at South African Junior Nationals Figures from the Gauteng Household Travel Survey highlighted the issue. Nearly 60% of households were spending more than 10% of their income on public transport in 2019/20, a notable increase from 55% in 2014. Diale-Tlabela also called on employers to promote KlevaMova among qualifying staff. 'We want to see a more inclusive ridership on the Gautrain. This is about creating equity in mobility.' To benefit from KlevaMova, individuals must apply by submitting supporting documentation. Applications are subject to verification before approval. Also read: Diverse sectors meet future talent at The IIE's Varsity College Sandton career fair The initiative is complemented by a major reduction in parking fees. From April 1 to July 31 2025, all Gautrain users can park at any station for just R1 per day, making the service even more appealing to those who drive to stations. This latest move aligns with the province's long-term Integrated Transport Master Plan, which places passenger rail at the centre of efforts to reduce road congestion, accidents, and emissions. Read more: Kew residents fill pothole despite Joburg Roads Agency's promise More details about KlevaMova and how to apply are available at via the toll-free number 0800 428 87246 (0800 GAUTRAIN), or at Gautrain stations (excluding OR Tambo) between 08:00 and 17:00 from Monday to Saturday. With KlevaMova now available, public transport in Gauteng may finally become a viable and cost-effective option for many more residents. Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration! Have a story idea? We'd love to hear from you – join our WhatsApp group and share your thoughts! At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
Zawya
15-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
South Africa: Biggles Removals weekly update on Sandton's property, infrastructure and moving activity
Here's this week's snapshot of property, economic, and infrastructure developments in Sandton, Morningside, and Rivonia. Whether you're investing or relocating, we've combined the latest property insights with our on-the-ground furniture moving experience in these bustling northern suburbs of Johannesburg. Sandton Often dubbed 'the richest square mile in Africa', Sandton is Johannesburg's financial epicenter. It's home to the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, multinational HQs, luxury apartments, and Sandton City Mall. Property trends: Sandton remains one of the most sought-after property nodes in South Africa. The area features a high concentration of luxury apartments and penthouses. According to Lightstone Property, sectional title units dominate the Sandton Central market, catering to professionals and corporate tenants. - High demand for units near the Gautrain and offices - Sectional titles offer lock-up-and-go security and amenities Infrastructure developments: Major infrastructure upgrades include ongoing improvements to Katherine Street and Rivonia Road to ease congestion. The Rea Vaya bus transit system is set to expand further into Sandton to improve public transport access. Olympus Sandton is a landmark R2bn mixed-use development situated in the heart of Sandton. Developed by Growthpoint Properties in partnership with Tricolt, this project aims to redefine luxury living with its blend of residential, retail, and leisure pedestrian-friendly 'Walkable Sandton' project also aims to reduce dependency on cars in the inner core. Notable property developments in Sandton: - The Leonardo: Africa's tallest building at 234m; mixed-use development with apartments from R3.5m. - BlackBrick Sandton: A residential micro-apartment concept targeting digital nomads and corporate travelers from R1.15m. Investment appeal: Sandton continues to attract both local and international buyers looking for solid ROI and capital growth. It is especially appealing to investors seeking short-term, furnished rental opportunities for executives and business travelers. Sectional title snapshot: High-rise buildings like The Capital on the Park, Sandhurst Towers, and The Regent are popular for their modern finishes, concierge services, and rental yields of 6–9% per annum, depending on location and furnishing. Rental demand: Corporate rentals dominate here. According to Seeff, furnished 2-bedroom apartments close to Sandton City can fetch between R18,000 and R30,000/month, with short-term rentals commanding a premium during major conferences and events. Biggles Removals – Sandton furniture removal services: This past month, we helped several families with their furniture relocations in Sandton. A question we often get is: 'Will moving companies pack for you?' Yes, most reputable moving companies offer optional packing services, usually for an added fee. These can be tailored to your needs: from packing only delicate or high-value items to managing the full packing of your household. When you opt in, the moving team supplies everything – boxes, tape, and protective wrapping. For fragile goods, professional packing offers peace of mind and significantly lowers the risk of damage during the relocation. Morningside Set between Sandton central and Rivonia, Morningside is a leafy, family-friendly suburb that offers the best of both worlds – convenient access to the Sandton CBD and a quieter suburban lifestyle. Property trends: Morningside is known for its large freehold homes, gated estates, and increasingly, stylish apartment complexes. Lightstone reports that over 60% of recent buyers in Morningside are aged 35 to 49 – typically upmarket buyers upgrading or professionals relocating for work. - High concentration of medical professionals and diplomats due to nearby Morningside Mediclinic and embassies - Strong growth in upmarket sectional titles in complexes like The Odyssey and The Emperor Infrastructure developments: Recent upgrades to Kelvin Drive and the Grayston Interchange have improved traffic flow. The area also benefits from close proximity to the Gautrain and the upcoming Sandton–Fourways transport corridor. Notable property development in Morningside: - The Polofields Estate: Offers luxury apartments, lifestyle amenities, and green living concepts from R1.8m. - Central Square: High-end mixed-use development with rooftop gardens and restaurants. Investment appeal: Strong rental demand from professionals and corporate clients keeps vacancy rates low. Many properties offer excellent security, which remains a top priority for both tenants and investors. According to Private Property, most homeowners in Morningside hold on to their properties for longer periods of time, reflecting the area's long-term investment appeal. Sectional title snapshot: Complexes with fiber internet, biometric access, and communal amenities (gyms, pools, lounges) see the fastest turnover. Many developers now include smart-home features as standard. Rental demand: Two-bedroom, furnished units in modern complexes rent for R14,000 to R22,000/month. The proximity to Sandton CBD and various consulates makes it ideal for corporate leases and relocations. Biggles Removals – Morningside moving company: 'Can moving companies take my furniture apart?' Absolutely, furniture disassembly and reassembly is a standard service offered by most professional furniture movers, particularly for larger items like beds, wardrobes, and desks. This usually comes at an additional cost – R300 to R1,500 per item, depending on complexity. The moving team will bring the necessary tools, secure all hardware, and reassemble everything at your new location. It's wise to confirm these details in advance, especially for custom or built-in furniture. Rivonia Located along Rivonia Road just north of Sandton, Rivonia is a busy suburb that blends commercial vibrancy with peaceful residential charm. It's popular with entrepreneurs, tech professionals, and families. Property trends: Rivonia is dominated by sectional title properties, especially 1- and 2-bedroom apartments suited to young professionals. According to Property 24, the annual number of properties sold in Rivonia has seen a steady decline over recent years, while the average sales price has increased exponentially. Infrastructure developments: Key developments in Rivonia include upgrades to Rivonia Boulevard and 12th Avenue aimed at supporting increased mixed-use growth and improving overall traffic flow. The suburb is also seeing the expansion of high-speed fiber networks across both residential and commercial zones, enhancing digital connectivity for residents and businesses. Additionally, road widening initiatives and the construction of new office parks along Witkoppen Road and 9th Avenue are contributing to Rivonia's ongoing transformation into a modern, accessible, and well-connected nexus. Notable property development in Rivonia: - Sandton View Estate: Modern apartments near Rivonia Road. - Eden Sandton: Chic apartments designed for Airbnb/short lets with hotel-style services. Investment appeal: Rivonia's proximity to both the N1 highway and Sandton's CBD makes it a hotspot for investors seeking affordability and high tenant turnover. Sectional title snapshot: Complexes like The Link, The Arches, and Rivonia Gate cater to a mix of owners and investors. These properties see good returns when rented furnished, particularly for 3- to 6-month corporate leases. Rental demand: Rivonia's high density of professionals keeps demand for affordable, secure rentals high. Units in secure estates with parking and generator backup are especially popular. Biggles Removals – Rivonia furniture movers: 'How early should you book a moving company?' Ideally, book your move two to four weeks in advance, especially during high-demand times like month-end. Booking your moving company early helps you secure your preferred slot, allows time to prepare properly, and may give access to better pricing if you can avoid peak days. Leaving it too late often limits your options, both in terms of timing and service availability. Furniture removal costs in Sandton and surrounding areas Sandton moving company costs vary based on various factors, including how much furniture you have, the distance of the move, access issues your moving company may experience, and any additional services required. Local moving company prices in Sandton and surrounds: 1-2 bedrooms: R1,500–R5,000 3-4 bedrooms: R6,000–R12,000 5+ bedrooms: R12,000–R20,000 Long-distance moves to or from Sandton: Within 200km: R6,000–R15,000 Over 200km: R15,000–R30,000 Additional furniture removal services: Packing/unpacking: R500–R3,000 Furniture disassembly/reassembly: R300–R1,500 per item Storage solutions: R500–R2,000 per month Need help with your move in Sandton or beyond? Contact Biggles for a custom furniture moving quote or packing support. All rights reserved. © 2022. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
eNCA
14-05-2025
- Business
- eNCA
50% cuts for the vulnerable
JOHANNESBURG - Households with a combined income of R350,000 or less per annum will qualify for a half-price discount on Gautrain services. Sassa grant beneficiaries such as pensioners, people with disabilities and students will also have some reprieve from high transport costs with the KlevaMova campaign. As South Africans face tough economic times, the Gauteng Household Travel Survey shows that almost 60% of households spend more than 10% of their income on public transport. The move will hopefully put more bucks back into the pockets of vulnerable groups.
Zawya
14-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
South Africa: Biggles Removals weekly update on Midrand's property, infrastructure and moving activity
Here's this week's snapshot of property, economic, and infrastructure developments in Midrand, Sunninghill and Woodmead. Whether you're house-hunting, investing, or relocating, we've combined fresh property data with our on-the-ground insights from recent furniture relocations in these areas. Midrand Strategically located between Johannesburg and Pretoria, Midrand is an ever-growing urban hub known for its blend of residential estates, business parks, and cutting-edge developments like Waterfall City. With excellent transport links and growing commercial footprint, it's a magnet for young professionals and investors alike. Property trends: Midrand is rapidly evolving into a central business district between Johannesburg and Pretoria. The area boasts a diverse property market, with freehold properties constituting approximately 53% of the market. Recent buyers are predominantly between 18 and 35 years old, reflecting the area's appeal to younger professionals. Infrastructure developments: According to The African Investor, the Gautrain station in Midrand has significantly boosted property values, with homes near stations experiencing a 12% price increase in 2024. In addition, Waterfall City, a massive R100bn development, is set to feature 28,000 residential units and 1.6 million square meters of commercial and office space by 2027. Notable property developments in Midrand: - The Austin (Glen Austin AH): Modern duplex homes with private gardens, double garages, and quality finishes; prices from R1,695,000; Phase 3 launching soon (Hyder Properties). - The Richards West (Halfway House): Secure apartments with contemporary design and convenient access to major roads; starting from R749,000 (Hyder Properties). - Umthunzi Origins (Erand Gardens): Lifestyle estate featuring a clubhouse, gym, and family amenities; prices from R799,000 for 1- and 2-bed units. Investment appeal: Major corporations like Nike SA, Deloitte, and BMW have established head offices in Midrand, indicating strong business interest. Attacq, the developer of Waterfall City, plans to invest an estimated R1.7bn in properties currently under construction and those recently approved, highlighting the area's growth potential. Sectional title snapshot: Modern 1- and 2-bedroom apartments in complexes such as The Whisken and The Edge are in high demand, offering solid security and amenities that appeal to young renters and first-time buyers. Midrand mini moving services reflect this with smaller relocations becoming more and more frequent. Rental demand: Rental demand in Midrand remains high due to its affordability and proximity to large employers. Lock-up-and-go apartments near the Gautrain station are particularly popular. Biggles Removals – Midrand Furniture Movers: This past month, we helped several families with their furniture relocations in Midrand. A question we often get is: 'Is it worth hiring a moving company even if you're only moving a short distance?' Yes, even if you're only moving within 10km, hiring a moving company can be well worth it, especially if you want to save time, avoid injury, and protect your belongings. Even short-distance moves involve heavy lifting, tight deadlines, and tricky access points. Professional movers come equipped with the right tools and training to handle these challenges efficiently and safely. Many also offer mini removal services, ideal for smaller moves at a lower cost, giving you just the help you need without the full-scale price tag. Sunninghill The area has this perfect relaxed suburban vibe while still being just a stone's throw from Sandton and other major business hubs. It's a trending area for professionals and young families who love the secure complexes and leafy streets. Having some excellent schools nearby is another big plus, making Sunninghill a really well-rounded choice. Property trends: Sunninghill offers a mix of older townhouse complexes and newer apartment developments, as seen on 5th Avenue Properties. The suburb comprises numerous townhouses, a living establishment commonly popular in new Johannesburg developments due to secured and often guarded boundaries and lower ownership cost than individual housing property. Infrastructure developments: The suburb enjoys quick access to the N1 via Rivonia Road and has seen consistent improvements in local infrastructure. Upgrades around Chilli Lane Shopping Centre and Rivonia Boulevard have boosted retail and convenience options. Notable property development in Sunninghill: - Urban Tana: Exclusive 3- and 4-bedroom duplexes with private gardens and double garages; from R2,850,000; located in a secure estate (Leopolda Properties). Investment appeal: Investors favor Sunninghill for its high tenant turnover and low vacancy rates. It's an ideal location for short- to medium-term rentals, especially for expats and corporate tenants working in Sandton, Woodmead, or Midrand. Sectional title snapshot: Apartment complexes like The Kanyin and Sunninghill Gardens are performing well. One- and two-bedroom units in secure estates are especially attractive for buy-to-let investors targeting mobile professionals. Rental demand: The rental market is driven by professionals seeking proximity to their offices without Sandton's high rental prices. Lock-up-and-go units are hot commodities, and short-term rentals are growing, thanks to the area's strategic location. Biggles Removals – Sunninghill Furniture Removal Services: 'Can moving companies pack for you?' Absolutely. Most professional moving companies offer packing services, usually at an additional cost. These services can range from partial packing, where movers only pack specific rooms or fragile items, to full packing, where the entire home is packed up for you. If you opt in for a packing service your moving company will bring their own packing materials such as boxes, tape, and bubble wrap. If you have delicate or high-value belongings, professional packing services can also reduce the risk of damage in transit. Woodmead Property trends: Woodmead is a dynamic suburb that beautifully balances business and residential offerings. While it's home to numerous corporate headquarters and modern office parks (like 3M, Ericsson, Accenture, Aspen Pharmacare, and SAP), it's not just about work! The area is perfect for people who want to be close to Sandton's commercial buzz while still enjoying quieter residential pockets and lovely green spaces. Infrastructure developments: The area is well-served by the M1, N1, and R55 highways, making commuting easy. Recent commercial expansion includes tech office parks and retail enhancements around Woodmead Retail Park and Office Park. Notable property development in Woodmead: - The Lynx (Khyber Rock): Free-standing duplex homes with smart-home features, private pools, and enclosed gardens; from R3,990,000; ideal for professionals near Sandton (IGrow Real Estate). Investment appeal: Woodmead's location near Sandton, Sunninghill, and Midrand keeps it relevant for investors. Corporate rentals and furnished units perform particularly well, driven by short-term contracts and business relocations. Sectional title snapshot: Developments like Woodmead Manor and Pinehurst provide excellent value with a strong rental base. According to Property 24, properties with amenities like fiber, gym access, and high security see the fastest turnover. Rental demand: There's strong corporate rental demand from professionals working in surrounding business districts. Fully furnished units close to office parks are particularly sought-after for short-term leases. Biggles Removals – Woodmead Furniture Removals: 'Can moving companies transport plants?' Yes, most moving companies can transport plants, but it often depends on the type of move and the company's policy. For local relocations, moving houseplants is generally not a problem – movers can place them securely in the truck and take steps to minimise damage. Long distance trips are riskier for plants as they may spend days in the dark, but some moving companies will water plants if they stop at a warehouse. It's important to let your moving company know in advance though, as plants require careful handling and are usually not covered under standard insurance. Furniture removal costs in Midrand and surrounding areas Furniture moving costs vary based on several factors including distance, the volume of furniture, and any additional services required. Here's what you can expect to pay for a moving company in Midrand and Johannesburg: Local moving company prices in Midrand and surrounds: 1–2 bedrooms: R1,500–R5,000 3–4 bedrooms: R6,000–R12,000 5+ bedrooms: R12,000–R20,000 Long-distance moves: Within 200km: R6,000–R15,000 Over 200km: R15,000–R30,000 Additional services: Packing/unpacking: R500–R3,000 Furniture disassembly/reassembly: R300–R1,500 per item Storage solutions: R500–R2,000 per month
