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The GO GEORGE bus service says it spent R698 200 repairing broken bus windows, following no less than 43 incidents of stone-throwing last year.
“Vandalism targeting GO GEORGE infrastructure and buses is a grave concern,” said manager, Morné Lakay.
He said on Wednesday that each damaged bus removed from service for repairs, places additional pressure on the remaining fleet, potentially causing delays and disrupting the bus schedules.
“Such incidents not only disrupt the quality of service for our passengers but also defy our mission to provide a dignified and safe public transport service.
“Each damaged bus removed from service for repairs puts additional pressure on the remaining fleet, potentially causing delays and disrupting the entire schedule for the day,” he said.
Lakay cautioned that these incidents, which may be viewed as harmless pranks, are, in fact, criminal offences.
“Damaging public property is a prosecutable crime and can lead to a criminal record. Throwing stones at a bus is not just vandalism — it’s a reckless act that endangers the lives of passengers and staff, with the potential to inflict serious injuries,” he said.
Lackay once again called on the community to take collective responsibility for safeguarding GO GEORGE buses and related facilities.
“We need the active involvement of parents, teachers, youth leaders, community influencers, and religious and business organisations to foster a sense of ownership and pride and instill the right values in our youth,” he said.
