Western Cape’s MEC for transport and public works urges all transport operators to follow lockdown regulations.

The Western Cape’s MEC for transport and public works, Bonginkosi Madikizela has urged all transport operators to follow lockdown regulations. The MEC said that social distancing on public transport is critical, in order to stop the spread of Covid-19.

Madikizela says public transport can only be used for rendering essential services, obtaining essential goods or services, seeking medical attention, funeral services and for collecting payment of grants and pensions.

He says that essential services workers using public transport must carry a permit from their employer proving their status.

The transport MEC says public transport will only be available between 5a.m and 10a.m and then again between 4p.m and 8p.m, with one-hour grace periods are provided for minibus taxi services.

He says private institutions or companies may make arrangements for transportation of their essential services workers in line with shifts or schedules. 

   

Outlining the number of passengers on public transport, Madikizela says:

•  Bus services, metered taxi and e-hailing services are restricted to carrying 50% of licensed capacity

•  Minibus and midi-bus taxi services: Restricted to carrying 70% of licensed capacity, and

• Private vehicle are restricted to carrying 60% of licensed capacity

Madikizela says hand sanitiser must be available at public transport facilities and, ideally, onboard the vehicle, drivers and marshals must wear a mask, and vehicles must be cleaned regularly.  He said that this applies to all bus, minibus taxi, metered taxi and e-hailing services. 

Done By: Mitchum George