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Press Room Media Releases 2010
Press Room Media Releases 2010
| City will not allow intimidators to derail bus rapid transit |
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| Tuesday, 02 March 2010 |
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THE Executive Mayor paid tribute to representatives from the transport sector in the City who have contributed to make the first phase of Rea Vaya a resounding success. “We now have the beginning of a modern public transport system that will continue to grow and expand reaching most residents in the next three to four years and helping us to cope with the problems of congestion, traffic density, air and noise pollution,” he says. “Rea Vaya is the product of an exhaustive process of public consultation and negotiations with the authentic representatives of the taxi industry in the City,” says Mayor Masondo. “We have reached a remarkable degree of consensus on all aspects of BRT including the routes the new buses will be travelling and the participation of the taxi industry, both owners and drivers.” The taxi industry has recognised the significant economic opportunities that arise from Rea Vaya including ownership/shareholding, the driving of vehicles and maintenance. They have been valued partners in the new network from the outset. Mayor Masondo says there were some taxi organisations that initially “stood outside the process” but the City has continued to engage with them. “Last week we announced that the introduction of the roll out of the feeder system of Rea Vaya will be delayed for two weeks to allow for further consultation. “Our doors have been open throughout the process and there is no organisation that can say they have been excluded or not given ample opportunities to have their voices heard”. “Those elements who are now trying to derail the process through intimidation or threats of violence will meet with the full force of the law,” says Mayor Masondo. The City of Johannesburg will take vigorous action against individuals and organisations involved in intimidation and other criminal actions intended to sabotage the Bus Rapid Transit system, says the Executive Mayor, Clr Amos Masondo. “We will not allow anarchy to derail a public transport system that is vital for the future of Johannesburg and its residents. There will be no tolerance of unacceptable behaviour by individuals who confiscate stickers and stop vehicles of those who support the BRT process”. Mayor Masondo says he held talks with the Gauteng MEC for Community Safety, Mr Khabisi Mosunkutu and for Roads and Transport, Mr Bheki Nkosi and they are “united in their resolve to act against those who want to sabotage the BRT.” Our doors remain open and we welcome input from all stakeholders, ranging from Taxi Associations, commuter’s organisations and commuters themselves. “Those who oppose the system do so to protect their own narrow interests,” says Mayor Masondo. “If they use illegal methods the law will take its course.” Issued on behalf of Executive Mayor, Councillor Amos Masondo by: Nkhensani Makhobela Spokesperson for the Executive Mayor City of Johannesburg Tel: 011 407 7524 Fax: 011 339 5709 Cell: 082 461 7075 |
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