Abstract
M.Comm.
Formal public transport has an important function to fulfill, both in terms of service provision and also in the broader context of the economy. This is so because so many workers live in dispersed areas and are dependent on public transport to arrive at work. This point is especially valid with regard to the Soweto area, which is one of the most heavily populated areas in South Africa, providing a large workforce to South Africa's most important economic region — the Witwatersrand.
The main theme of this study is that all "formal" passenger transport operators in the Soweto area need to be integrated and that structural co-ordination should take place. This includes service provision in terms of routes and schedules as well as the ticketing system.
This study provides an overview of the activities of the "formal" operators in the Soweto area. The conclusion that can be drawn is that the current "formal" service leaves considerable scope for improvement. It is also clear from the reports that have been quoted in this study that the minimum levels of service are not being achieved. Hence, this study proposes new road-based routes and schedules aimed at improving the coordination of bus and rail transport in the Soweto and surrounding areas. This study also proposes an integrated ticketing system, which is aimed at forming the basis for effective co-ordination.
The purpose of these proposals is to assist the yet-to-be-established Transport Authorities to make decisions that will guide the co-ordination process in the right direction.
The study also investigates other aspects that influence the "formal" public transport system. These include Government Policy, national objectives, ticketing systems and coordination. These aspects, combined with current research and schedules will be used as the basis where-upon new suggestions are made.
The study emphasises that the suggestions made will not necessarily improve cost effectiveness but are primarily aimed at improving upon the current service. The study suggests however, that any additional funding that may be needed will be a moderate amount with regard to macro-economic variables, and at the same time will improve the quality of life of the community and will help in achieving national transport objectives as envisaged by the Moving South Africa study project.
It is also suggested in this study that the time for meaningless debate is over and that the time has arrived to implement practical solutions with regard to the formal public passenger transport system in South Africa.