New MyCiti fare reductions: Here’s how much less commuters will pay
Beginning in October, MyCiTi bus fares will be lowered, providing much-needed relief for Cape Town commuters.
The reduction in MyCiti bus fares follows a notable drop in diesel prices over the last three months, which has reduced the operating costs for the City’s bus service.
Typically, MyCiTi fares are reviewed and adjusted annually on 1 July, following the approval of the City of Cape Town’s budget. These fare adjustments reflect projected expenses for delivering transport services throughout the year.
However, this year’s mid-cycle fare reduction is a direct response to lower fuel costs. The new, reduced fares kick in on 1 October 2024.
“We’re pleased to pass these savings on to our MyCiTi passengers, especially in light of current economic pressures,” said Councillor Rob Quintas, the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Mobility.
“The monthly pass remains great value for money by offering passengers unlimited travel on as many routes and as many times as they wish, not only to work but to explore the City on weekends and holidays.”
Quintas further noted that the MyCiTi fare structure allows for in-year adjustments when diesel prices shift significantly. This flexible approach ensures that passengers aren’t overcharged when fuel costs drop, while also protecting the City from losses if diesel prices rise.
The updated fares are as follows:
Peak fares remain applicable for trips taken on weekdays between 06:45 and 08:00, and again from 16:15 to 17:30. Outside of these times, including all day on weekends and public holidays, off-peak or “Saver” fares will be in effect.
The cost of a new myconnect card will stay at R40. Passengers may also be relieved to know that they won’t pay any more for penalties incurred when they tap in and out incorrectly.
MyCiti to open new routes, introduce electric buses
According to Quitas, the City of Cape Town also plans to have electric buses (e-buses) on its MyCiti service by 2027.
These buses will be integrated into MyCiTi Phase 2A. This phase will see an extension of the bus service to connect Mitchells Plain, Khayelitsha, Wynberg, and Claremont.
This marks the City’s second attempt at implementing zero-emission technology, following an unsuccessful attempt in 2018.
Since then, e-buses have made massive strides in terms of range and technology. Read more on that story here.