Western Cape promotes public transport as solution to traffic woes

Western Cape authorities are encouraging residents to use public transport to reduce congestion.

Black News Black News
Apr 17, 2026 - 09:57
Western Cape promotes public transport as solution to traffic woes

Western Cape residents are being encouraged to use public transport instead of private vehicles to help reduce traffic congestion.

The call comes as authorities marked the inaugural World Public Transport Day.

The initiative, led by the International Association of Public Transport, aims to highlight the role of public transport in reducing travel costs and improving access to opportunities.

The Western Cape Department of Mobility marked the day with an activation at the Bellville Public Transport Interchange, where Provincial Minister of Mobility Isaac Sileku engaged with commuters.

“The only way we can deal with congestion in our province is for us to have an uptake in public transport. So we need to deal with the element of safety with our stakeholders, so we have more and more people who want to use public transport, but are afraid of losing their lives, so they can use public transport without the risk of losing their lives, because it will be efficient, it will be safe, and it will be reliable. So they must work with our stakeholders and us to make sure that we deal with the element which is safety in public transport, so that we can deal with congestion,” said Sileku.

Meanwhile, Cape Town Traffic Services has urged people attending the SA Navy Festival in Simon’s Town this weekend to plan their travel due to expected high traffic volumes.

Traffic spokesperson Kevin Jacobs says parking will be limited and alternative transport should be used.

“Free Park & Ride facilities will be available from the Fishhoek sports ground, as well as Fishhoek beach, with shuttle services operated by MyCiti buses. A free bus service will also be provided by the Military from the Glen Sports Complex on Glen Road, Glencairn. The public is encouraged to plan, follow the signage and instructions from officials, and make use of the available transport services,” said Jacobs.

Authorities say increased use of public transport is key to managing congestion in the province.

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