Getrude Makhafola

Getrude Makhafola

Commuters in Gauteng can expect to use a single-ticket system for buses, trains and taxis in the near future.

Ignatius Jacobs, pictured, Gauteng MEC for public transport, roads and works said this would become a reality with the launch of the Gauteng Transport Management Authority (GTMA).

"What Gauteng needs is an entity that synthesises all initiatives - the Gautrain, Highway Improvement Scheme, Bus Rapid Transit, HOV Lanes, existing or in construction - into a seamless integrated whole. This is where the GTMA comes in," he said.

The GTMA is responsible for the overall planning, coordination, facilitation and implementation of an integrated transportation network in the province.

"Why not use a single ticket instead of having to buy two tickets? The single-ticket system will make commuting easier," said Jacobs.

GTMA spokesman Melissa Whitehead said their work would ensure intermodal connectivity, reduced transport costs and accessibility.

Jacobs said every stakeholder in transport, including taxi operators, supported the initiative.

The GTMA, in the pipeline for two years, has been allocated start-up funding of R25million and an additional R10million has been secured for its immediate projects.

It has eight board directors who will provide strategic oversight.

There are eight portfolios such as integrated transport, traffic management, provincial roads and commuter involvement - each managed by an expert.

Motlalepula Chabaku, a member of the Gauteng legislature, said: "I live in Soweto and have been a commuter for years. I am one of the millions who have to put up with unsatisfactory public transportation all the time."

She said the GTMA's commuter involvement portfolio should listen to commuters' advice since they had great suggestions about public transport.