Yesterday, I met with the leadership of the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport, MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, to coordinate intergovernmental efforts in some of the pressing sector-specific matters affecting the City of Tshwane municipal area. Key to these discussions includes ensuring that both spheres of government consider all possible ways within the legal frameworks to avoid disrupting subsidised transport in the region and fully service passengers.
The City is also engaging with the provincial department to rehabilitate priority roads as set out in the memorandum of understanding envisaged with the City of Tshwane. I welcome the commitment by the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport to fast-track existing capital projects that have commenced in the City. At this stage, we must do all that is legally possible to overcome challenges and put passengers first, so they can get to work safely and grow the economy.
Although there is still a long way to go to overcome many of the challenges that the transport and construction sector faces, I am particularly encouraged by the constructive approach of the officials and public representatives in working together to resolve these challenges. The coalition government’s dedication in the City of Tshwane is to ensure that Tshwane residents have safe and reliable transport options.
I will continue to have regular engagements with the MEC so that we may have meaningful outcomes for all role players. It is no doubt that the extent to which people can exploit opportunities is dependent on how they are able to move around in their cities. A safe and affordable public transport system guarantees an open opportunity society for all.