A plan of action needed for safety of long-distance buses - DA

The DA in the Western Cape wants a plan of action from the Transport Minister, Fikile Mbalula, regarding the safety of long-distance buses, passengers, and drivers as the festive season draws near.

The call comes after long distance buses, specifically, Intercape buses have been frequently attacked, allegedly by members of the taxi industry. In April, Intercape driver Bangikhaya Machana was killed.

Earlier this month the Eastern Cape High Court ruled that Minister Mbalula take steps to deal with the ongoing attacks on long-distance bus service, Intercape and gave the Minister until this coming Friday, to produce an action plan in response to the continuous attacks.

‘’The Intercape Bus Company has confirmed that Minister Mbalula has not made any attempts to engage with the company. No consultations have been made with the Western Cape either, which is most affected by the incidents,’’ said Ricardo Mackenzie,DA Western Cape Spokesperson on Transport.

‘’The DA, therefore, believes that a national action plan should inform the long-term protection of drivers, commuters, and infrastructure, especially during a period of heightened inter-provincial travel. We do not want to see any further violence, extortion, and bloodshed which could be prevented on our inter-provincial routes. Despite there having been fewer reported attacks, the Department must nevertheless prepare for the future,’’ he added.

 

Done By: Mitchum George