Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality has signed an agreement to transfer 24 IPTS buses to the company, Spectrum Alert.
The company will operate the buses on the Integrated Public Transport System route with free rides being offered on from the northern Areas to town from the 26th of this month until 9th April.
A publicity campaign will begin in the Northern Areas from Monday to get the “buy-in” of communities.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mayoral Committee Member for Transport, Rano Kayser, said the moment for the Integrated Public Transport System buses has finally arrived with the last piece of the puzzle now in place.
“It was a really hard and bumpy road but we managed to stay the course. We can now officially hand over 25 buses, of which 24 are articulated, as well as the Cleary Park depot facility to the Vehicle Operating Company, Spectrum Alert”.
“I’ve made a commitment that we will not deviate from legislative requirements and accordingly the city now mandates the industry to run the Integrated Public Transport System (IPTS) on its behalf.
“Taxi drivers and guardjies (previously responsible for collecting money and operating taxi doors) have been trained and are now qualified Code 14 drivers and many more job opportunities will follow such as security services, maintenance and mechanical jobs amongst others.
“However we would like the beneficiaries of these jobs to come primarily from the taxi industry.
“Policemen and women who can present their appointment certificates as proof will be able to commute for free. Pensioners and students, with valid student cards, will get a 20% discount from the normal fare,” MMC Kayser said.
A public participation process, starting tonight, will now follow with Northern Areas residents and thousands of complimentary tickets will be distributed for use between 26 March and 9 April.
Commuters can get their complimentary tickets at the Cleary Park Customer Care Centre and the Mfanasekhaya Gqoboshe Building.
(Statement: Supplied)
