Gauteng is exploring new measures to promote the use of bicycles as a viable transport option in the province.
On Monday, the Gauteng Transport Commission (GTC) hosted a provincial Cycling Indaba, in Boksburg, aimed at promoting the streamlining of non-motorised transport as a viable option in the province.
The commission aims to distribute 3000 bicycles towards scholar transport and further create 5km of cycle lanes in Vosloorus and 10km in Kaalfontein at the City of Johannesburg.
Departmental spokesperson Octavia Mamabolo said according to the GTC, using a bicycle was affordable and would allow learners to get to school faster and safely.
It also promotes a healthy lifestyle as exercise becomes a built-in part of daily life.
Mamabolo said the non-motorised transport master plan seeks to integrate all municipal non-motorised transport network plans, commit sustainable sources of funding non-motorised transport, and invest in shared road usage while including cycling and pedestrian infrastructure in the design and maintenance of road projects.
“The creation of a dedicated network of high quality pedestrian and cycling routes will promote social integration amongst city residents, integrating cycling at public transport nodes by making cycling cool through awareness and mind-set change
“Amending relevant technical roads standards and planning requirements will also reduce road deaths which amount to for 40% of road fatalities, which occur at intersections and cost the public health system, police, traffic departments and third party claims to escalate,” she said.
The City of Joburg infrastructure roll out programme includes Alexandra integrated walking, cycling and public transport. Non-motorised transport plan in Alexandra is expected to improve sidewalks and dedicate cycle ways leading and linking Longmeadow/Linbro Park and Marlboro station.
A link from the Bus Rapid Transport (BRT) public transport interchange to Sandton via Grayson over a dedicated bridge with Katherine will be completed in January 2017.
Mamabolo said the GTC advocated the use of non-motorised transport to reduce congestion on Gauteng roads; create cleaner and sustainable cities and a healthier population.
“The challenge above acknowledges the need to shift to a new paradigm and policy approach for making non-motorised transport a mode of choice for short distances as well as for recreation,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
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