DA – “Metrobus is proving to be neither safe nor trustworthy”
As the investigation is underway to ascertain the cause of the accident involving a Metrobus and a student bus shuttle in Auckland Park, the Democratic Alliance (DA) has raised a number of concerns about the conditions of the buses. METRO BUS INVOLVED IN A HECTIC COLLISION 77 passengers were injured yesterday, Tuesday, 25 July outside […]
As the investigation is underway to ascertain the cause of the accident involving a Metrobus and a student bus shuttle in Auckland Park, the Democratic Alliance (DA) has raised a number of concerns about the conditions of the buses.
METRO BUS INVOLVED IN A HECTIC COLLISION
77 passengers were injured yesterday, Tuesday, 25 July outside the University of Johannesburg when the two buses collided. Of the 77, 19 were students.
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“The city can ill afford to have 145 buses, out of 383, out of service,” said DA spokesperson on Metrobus councillor Mark van der Merwe.
“We wish a speedy recovery to those involved in the tragic accident. However, the question arises from this and a plethora of other accidents, how and when will the city address yet another failing entity under their charge.”
Mark van der Merwe
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DA MAKES A CALL TO THE MMC OF TRANSPORT
“We call on the MMC of Transport in the City of Johannesburg, Cllr Kenny Kunene, to launch an investigation to determine the extent of the Metrobus’ involvement in the accident,” he added.
“Thousands of people in Johannesburg and its surrounding areas are dependent on the usage of the Metrobus system. With 38% of the buses out of commission (OOC), these commuters are left stranded. The most recent quarterly report confirms exactly that while noting that Metrobus was unable to meet their required planned trips,” Mark cited some of the woes.
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BUSES TOO OLD TO CARRY OUT SERVICE?
He continued, “With an ageing fleet, 59% of the buses are older than 15 years, the Metrobus service not only lags behind the industry standard in the age of their fleet, but the numerous accidents this year begs the question – can residents trust the service?
“Safety and trust are both crucial aspects of public transport, and Metrobus is proving to be neither safe nor trustworthy. It is high time that these buses enter the modern era”.
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Mark suggested that Metrobus drivers should be monitored while bus maintenance and the actual delivery of services should become the main goal.
“Under the leadership of the current government, Johannesburg is fast becoming a hub for failure in service delivery and serious accidents,” he criticised, further saying the DA will not rest until answers are obtained.
“It is unacceptable that users of public transport need fear for their lives in the economic hub of the country,” he concluded.