Latest news with #trafficCongestion
BBC News
24-05-2025
- Business
- BBC News
Could Sydney-style water taxis come to Portsmouth?
For those living near harbours in the South of England, the idea of calling a water taxi to get to work or home from a night out could soon be a idea was the subject of a summit last week involving politicians, ferry providers, business leaders and experts in marine event at the Portsmouth's historic dockyard heard the system could work on an "on-demand" basis, like Uber, or on a scheduled timetable, and could be key to helping alleviate some of the South's traffic ferry operators warned that public subsidies would be needed to get services off the ground and encourage people out of their car. The event was organised by Dame Caroline Dinenage, MP for Gosport, who said she wanted to hear the "art of the possible" and mimic cities like Sydney in Australia, which use water taxis for commuting and afterwards she said: "There's a definite enthusiasm to get things up and running to make the most of the water we have here. Everybody in one room helped see what the opportunities and obstacles are." Supporters of the idea included the operators of Gunwharf Quays, Hampshire chamber of commerce and Business South who said it could help encourage economic growth. But some of ferry operators at the summit said it was a challenge to change mindsets, to get people onto boats and out of cars, particularly outside of the summer months. The operator of the overnight ferry connecting Portsmouth and Gosport stopped sailings in February due to a lack of demand. Many in the industry said a change in government policy was needed are government grants to support public transport - like bus service improvement plans (BSIP) and the move back to public ownership for trains - but no such financial support exists in England for the maritime Rayment, owner of Blue Funnel Cruises, said: "Scottish ferries are subsidised, the ferries which cross Sydney harbour get financial support and there's been grants to the Thames clippers in London, but down here on the South Coast, there's nothing we can apply for, that's frustrating."Many in the room said public subsidies were needed while the service was in its infancy as the "passengers won't come instantly".In response, Caroline Dinenage said political backing was key as well as business support. You can follow BBC Hampshire & Isle of Wight on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram.
Malay Mail
21-05-2025
- Business
- Malay Mail
Penang undersea tunnel remains relevant to ease congestion on first bridge, says exco
GEORGE TOWN, May 21 — The Penang undersea tunnel project remains relevant in addressing traffic congestion on the first Penang bridge, state exco Zairil Khir Johari said. The state infrastructure, transport and digital committee chairman said the tunnel would help reduce traffic in both directions on the first bridge while diverting vehicles from the surrounding area. 'This will divert traffic to the undersea tunnel and ease severe congestion on roads leading to the first bridge,' he said in response to a written question by Lee Khai Loon (PKR-Machang Bubuk) at the state legislative assembly. Zairil said the state government remains optimistic about the feasibility of the project, noting that a new design is currently being developed. 'The new design for the undersea tunnel is an alternative and significant solution for the continuity and direction of this Penang third link project to ensure its implementation,' he said. He added that the revised design would incorporate considerations for efficiency, feasibility, effectiveness, and social and environmental impacts. 'Furthermore, the proposed new design can accommodate all types of vehicles and will also be a new icon for Penang, serving not only as infrastructure but also as a future tourist attraction,' he said. However, Zairil stressed that the state government would reserve the right to decide on the project's implementation based on the results of the feasibility study.
The Herald
14-05-2025
- The Herald
15 delivery motorbikes impounded by JMPD in Rosebank shopping district
Some riders allegedly lack valid driver's licences, vehicle licence discs, and, among foreign nationals, proper immigration documentation such as passports and permits authorising commercial operations in South Africa, the metro police said. 'The practices pose significant safety risks, impede pedestrian movement, specially for persons with disabilities, and contribute to traffic congestion.' The lack of proper documentation also raises concerns about accountability and regulatory oversight of the delivery services. 'We call on the companies and delivery platforms to ensure their riders comply with all relevant legislation and prioritise road safety. 'The operations aim not to disrupt legitimate businesses but to promote a safe, legal, and respectful environment for all residents and visitors in Johannesburg.'
