The expansion of the Integrated Public Transport System (IPTS) to Kariega is expected to benefit residents. This development follows an intensive two-year preparation and consultation process undertaken by the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality.
On Friday, October 18, the Municipality held a stakeholder engagement to inform key stakeholders about the details and benefits of the expansion. Member of the Mayoral Committee for Roads & Transport, Councillor Bradley Murray, and Director for Transport, Givon Van Eyk convened a meeting at the Kariega Council Chambers.
The gathering included councillors, residents, and key stakeholders such as the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) and Algoa Bus Company to discuss the upcoming IPTS route that will be launched in Kariega. The IPTS, known as Libhongolethu, has been operational in Gqeberha’s Northern Areas for the past six years as part of Phase 1A. The extension of this service to Kariega marks the commencement of Phase 1B, which will cover the Kariega, KwaNobuhle, and Rosedale routes.
SANTACO Eastern Cape President, Songezo Mpanda said,
The IPTS is a government-subsidised modern transport system aimed at providing a cost-effective, safe, and reliable transport service. In partnership with the taxi industry, the system seeks to empower and transform the taxi industry into a formal and sustainable transport system.
The Kariega extension will initially feature nine buses operating from 05:00 to 20:00 at 30-minute intervals. The service is scheduled to commence on November 20, 2024.
Speaking to stakeholders, Murray expressed his gratitude to the taxi industry for their close cooperation with the Municipality. “The cooperation of the industry has made this day a reality. We are now confident that we are starting next month. This expansion will go a long way in improving the economy of Kariega and provide safe transportation to the vulnerable,” he said.
The road network for the new service will cover Matanzima, Mabandla, and Ponana Tini roads. It will also include Mel Brooks Avenue, Durban and Cuyler Streets, and Kamesh Road.
