Public transport for disabled available
People with disabilities (PWD) are reminded that the Municipality offers several public transport options tailored for their needs.
Sukuma buses and Dial-A-ride transport caters for people unable to use traditional buses and other forms of public transport and the City encourages use of the buses, which travels within the Metro area.
Zuki Khuzwayo, Manager of Transport Authority Coordination said, “Citizens are encouraged to make use of this service as we know that people with disabilities are often a soft target when it comes to using public transport. The Dial-A-Ride service collects and drops off people from their homes.” Khuzwayo said the Municipality saw value in providing the service and disabled people with equal opportunities. The service gives them a chance to travel to work, schools and other facilities.
The service is part of the City’s goal to create an environment where passengers have confidence in the public transport system and their dignity is maintained. “We have heard of numerous cases whereby disabled people are victims of harassment and discriminated against, they continuously battle when travelling by public transport, however this should no longer be the case since wheelchair friendly buses have been made available to accommodate disabled people, their assistance and also their guide dogs,” adds Khuzwayo.
The Dial-A-Ride bus is reasonably priced, a fare of R2 a kilometer with average trip costing R10 to R14, depending on the distance travelled. The buses operate on weekdays from 05:30 to 19:30 and on weekends from 06:00 to 19:00. For convenience, commuters can make telephonic bookings on 086 066 2453 on a first-come-firstserve basis. Regular commuters can make a repeat booking on a month to-month basis for up to six months.
RACHEL SITHOLE and PRIAH DASS