Bo-Kaap residents up in arms about City tour bus 'disrupting their daily life.'

Bo-Kaap is known for its brightly coloured houses, cobblestone streets, and rich Cape Malay culture, but residents want the City of Cape Town to address urgent issues surrounding tour bus traffic in their area and the impact of this, on their daily life and heritage.

A protest led by the Bo-Kaap Civic and Ratepayers Association was held on Wednesday. The association reported increasing congestion, safety hazards, and accessibility issues for emergency services.

COURTESY: Facebook - Munier Parker

Residents claim they are not rejecting tourism but are advocating for responsible tourism.

“Tourism plays a critical role in our economy. Our goal is to work with the City of Cape Town to create a model of sustainable tourism that balances growth with preservation,” said Oesie Shaboodien, Chairperson of the Bo-Kaap Civic and Ratepayers Association.

“The constant stream of buses disrupts the charm of our neighborhood and makes it difficult for residents to navigate their own streets,” said Suraya de Bruin, a long-time resident. “We welcome tourism, but it must be managed responsibly.”

The Bo-Kaap Civic and Ratepayers Association has proposded 4 possible solutions they want the municplaity to implement and these include:

1. Tour Bus Drop-Off Zones: Designated areas outside the Bo-Kaap, such as Riebeeck Square or Wale Street near the Bo-Kaap Museum, will prevent buses from entering narrow streets while still allowing tourists easy access.

 2. MyCiTi Bus Stop: A local bus stop would provide sustainable, affordable transportation options for residents and visitors alike.

 3. Resident Parking Protections: Implementing resident-only parking zones will prioritize local access while limiting congestion from outside vehicles.

 4. Support for Local Tour Guides and Businesses: Encouraging partnerships with local operators ensures economic benefits flow back into the community.

‘’Residents have also highlighted the importance of pedestrian crossings, speed bumps near schools, and continuous monitoring of traffic patterns to ensure the safety of children and vulnerable pedestrians,’’ concluded Oesie Shaboodien, Chairperson of the Bo-Kaap Civic and Ratepayers Association.

 

Done By: Mitchum George