Alarm bells for public transport

Emmanuel Matsebatlela

Pretoria

Two recent accidents involving major public commuter modes of transport in Gauteng have created anxiety around the safety of all types of public transport.

It is worth noting that the bus collision involved two Metrobuses and the train collision was between two Metrorail trains. There was no third party involvement in either of the collisions.

These incidents have certainly dented the public’s confidence in the efficiency and safety of the transport system.

Something drastic needs to be done to retain the public’s confidence in the safety of these transport systems.

Perhaps there is a need for a more bespoke training programme for drivers who are employed to steer these vehicles.

A more focused training programme is needed to teach drivers to exercise extra caution and courtesy at all times – and to appreciate that they are responsible for the valuable lives of many people