Functional and dysfunctional urban mass transportation systems in the greater gauteng region of South Africa

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to present some insights regarding functional and dysfunctional urban public mass transportation systems in the greater Gauteng region of South Africa. Making use of a case study approach that places greater Johannesburg and Pretoria region at the centre of the investigation, contextual urban public mass transport struggles and dialogues are reviewed. Employing the interview surveys and a synthesis approach, the capacity and capability of the existing urban public transport to meet expectations of the serviced population in the greater Johannesburg region is critiqued. The contribution and value add that recent improvements in public transport management such as the Gautrain and Rea Vaya Bus rapid Transit (BRT) are explored and urban public transport "pain points and hotspots" considered. The major conclusions of the paper revolve around implementing a package of innovative and alternative transport solutions and technologies to overcome various obstacles and constraints to improved public transport service and infrastructure delivery and sustainability. © 2011 WIT Press.