34th Annual Southern African Transport Conference 2015

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://hdl.handle.net/2263/57560

Contents Pages: 34th Annual Southern African Transport Conference 2014

CONTENTS
Session Index/Programme	SATC


*Session 1A: Traffic Management, Safety and Infrastructure*

Non-motorised transport facility guidelines : what is new and why?	VanderSchuren, M.J.W.A. (Marianne); Phayane, S.; Taute, A.T. (Albertus); Ramotshwane, M.	1

The implications of persons with reduced mobility on spatial designs	Hermant, L.; Davies, L.; Shirley, K.	14

Pedestrian participation in mobility systems : the case of Bogota	Martins Goncalves, N.; Alvarez Pomar, L.; Mendez Giraldo, G.	28

Framework for sustainable walking and cycling within the City of Polokwane, South Africa : a comparative assessment	Ligege, A.; Nyarirangwe, M.	41

A methodology to assess the road accident risk as a result of direct sunlight exposure : a case study in Cape Town	Khumalo, N.; VanderSchuren, M.J.W.A. (Marianne)	54

Review of research to inform the development of a hazard perception test for novice drivers in South Africa	Venter, Karien; Sinclair, M.	76

Fatigue management : lessons from international legislation and practice	Swart, E.; Sinclair, M.	88

*Session 1B: Infrastructure*

Vehicle acceleration estimation using smartphone-based sensors	Bruwer, Frances; Booysen, M.	109

Telematics-based technology and the development of road condition trends from cloud-sourced data	Wessels, I.; Steyn, Wynand J.vdM.	130

Detecting potholes using simple image processing techniques and real-world footage	Nienaber, S.; Booysen, M.; Kroon, R.	137

Optimising the usage of fly ash in concrete in the construction of roadworks	Zulu, S.; Allopi, D.R. (Dhiren)	161

Fit-For-Purpose laboratory assessment of lightly stabilised fly ash material for road construction	Mgangira, M.B.; George, T.; Mokoena, R.	219

Determination of pavement number for flexible pavements using FWD deflection bowl information	Horak, Emile; Hefer, A.; Maina, J.W. (James)	187

A bilayer project optimization method for transportation infrastructure management system	Wang, H.; Chen, Z.; Li, L.	317

*Session 1C: Freight and Logistics*

Integrated freight and logistics strategic framework and action plan for the eThekwini municipality	Potgieter, L.; Maasdorp, G.; Moodley, L.; Sessions, P.	215

Understanding the barriers to a shift of processed food from road to rail through system dynamics	Lewis, Y.; Van der Merwe, A.B.; Cohen, B.; Naude, L.	230

Rail safety regulatory environment : a South African experience	Mashoko, L.; Shivambu, R.	242

A pro-forma design for car-carriers : low-speed performance-based standards	Benade, R.; Berman, R.; Kienhofer, F.; Nordengen, P.	253

Baseline axle load survey in Malawi - 2014	Roux, M.; Lotter, S.; Nordengen, P.A.	266

Road freight and the environment	Makamo, N.; Van Rooyen, C.; Venter, Karien	279

System dynamics as a tool for exploring greenhouse gas emission mitigation potential in freight transport	Van der Merwe, A.B.; Lewis, Y.; Cohen, B.; Naude, L.	288

*Session 1D: Rural Transport/Capacity Building*

The state of rural transport research in South Africa - gauging the policy shifts : 1994 - 2014	Chakwizira, J.; Mashiri, M.	301

Prospects for leveraging private sector logistics firms to support rural access to healthcare : some insights from Mozambique	Beale, J.; Mashiri, M.; Chakwizira, J.	329

Light delivery vehicle passenger transport in the Vhembe district of Limpopo province, South Africa	Munwana, T.	351

*Session 1E: Urban and Public Transport*

Exploring potential of public transport systems to facilitate development in the SA	Naude, S.	363

What does transit oriented development mean in a South African context? A multiple stakeholder perspective from Johannesburg	Bickford, G.; Behrens, R.	375

Articulated density : a study of its potential effects on the financial sustainability of South African BRT corridors	Cooke, S.; Behrens, R.	388

An integrated transport planning approach for Sandton - how do we balance the demands for road space	Van Jaarsveld, S.; Engelbrecht, M.	401

A travel behaviour change framework for the city of Cape Town	Behrens, R.; Adjei, E.; Covary, N.; Jobanputra, R.; Wasswa, B.; Zuidgeest, M.	412

Cooperatives as a means of paratransit reform : case studies of inter-city Matatu savings and credit cooperatives in Kenya	McCormick, D.; Orero, R.; Behrens, R.; Ommeh, M.	431

Gathering individual travel data with GPS-enabled smartphones : a proof-of-concept study	Van Dijk, J; Krygsman, S.	448

Public transport capacity provision and its sensitivity to demand estimation	Reddy, J.; Behrens, R.	461

Investigation and gap analysis of selected cycling upgrades in Cape Town and the new NMT facility guidelines	Baufeldt, J.; VanderSchuren, M.J.W.A. (Marianne)	476

*Session 2A: Traffic Management, Safety and Security*

A bicycling renaissance in South Africa? Policies, programmes & trends in Cape Town	Jennings, G.	486

Bike sharing in Johannesburg - trendy idea but is it financially feasible?	De Beer, L.; Valjarevic, D.	499

The development of a comprehensive cycle plan for Stellenbosch	Gordge, R.; Laing, G.; Wentzel, E.	519

Institutionalising coordinating structures to promote road traffic safety	West, C.; Dalhouzie, L.	542

Evaluation of the role of the urban planning related factors on the occurrence of traffic accidents in urban areas in South Africa - a case study in Bloemfontein city	Das, D.; Burger, E.	553

Standardisation of heavy vehicle crash investigation procedures in South Africa	Dube, S.; Davhana, M.	568

The importance of heavy vehicle driver education in South Africa	Magazi, L.; Mohammed, S.	587

*Session 2B: Transport systems and Operations*

Running dry : assessing the fuel levy as a long term, economically efficient road use fund	Van Rensburg, J.; Krygsman, S.	596

Finding practical solutions to cross border road transport challenges in SADC : a review of major challenges and prospects	Khumalo, S.; Chibira, E.	611

Economic-driving : a sustainable issue	Martins Goncalves, N.; Keiko Yamaguchi, C.; Roberto da Silva, C.	623

The impact of non-operationalisation of the SADC protocol and international transport agreements on cross border road transport movement in the SADC region	Monyepao, K.	636

Public transport trip generation parameters for South Africa	Onderwater, P.	645

The impact of corridor delays on cross border road transport in the SADC region : findings from research conducted by the cross-border road transport agency	Chibira, E.; Mdlankomo, B.	657

The role of management support in promoting corporate entrepreneurship within SME's in the seafreight transport industry	Schachtebeck, C.; Nieuwenhuizen, C.	670

Effective application of economic principles to border post planning and design : the Maseru bridge example	Botes, F.J.; Serero, G.	623

Law enforcement : a value adding service or an unnecessary irritation?	Mofomme, L.	697

*Session 3A: IPTN/BRT*

IRPTN vehicle financing options and considerations	Koch, P.; Von der Heyden, C.; De Stadler, S.; Hastings, E.; Strano, D.	708

Financing IRPTN operations : considerations for cities implementing I(R)PTNs in South Africa	Von der Heyden, C.; Laing,K.; Hastings, E.; Koch, P.; Reddy, T.	717

Towards a provincial public transport institutional framework for public and non-motorised transport transformation and improvement in the Western Cape	Ribbonaar, D.; Von der Heyden, C.; Hastings, E.; Moody, E.	731

Opportunities for public private partnerships in IRPTN infrastructure	De Stadler, S.; Von der Heyden, C.	742

Intersection and signal design for BRT : challenges, lessons learned & the road ahead	Frieslaar, A.; Jones, J.; Van der Merwe, L.; Dlamini, B.	754

Public transport interventions and transport justice in South Africa : a literature and policy review	Jennings, G.	764

*Session 3B: Traffic Engineering*

Effects of land use on trip generation in urban areas : comparison between estimated trip generation rates and planning practices in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania	Wilfred, G.; Bwire, H.; Mattsson, L.; Jonsson, D.	776

Variations in traffic count data	Chauke, V.	788

"Looking back, looking forward" : urban development and transport infrastructure in Gauteng Province	Mubiwa, B.; Mokonyama, M.; Annegarn, H.	801

Feasibility study on traffic decongestion strategies at Maseru bridge border post	Serero, G.; Van Jaarsveld, G.; De Abreu, V.; Brislin, A.	813

Assessment of traffic congestion in the central areas (CBD) of South African cities : a case study of Kimberly city	Das, D.; Keetse, M.	835

The indicative effects of inefficient urban traffic flow on fuel cost and exhaust air pollutant emissions	Moselakgomo, M.; Naidoo, M.; Letebele, M.	851

The universally accessible intersection	Frieslaar, A.; Thompson, P.; Frieslaar, R.	692

Drone-based traffic flow estimation and tracking using computer vision	De Bruin, A.; Booysen, M.	869

Non-intrusive detection, the way forward	Beyer, P.	879

*Student Essay Competition*

Transport as a servant of trade and its cross-border challenges : a case of Swaziland and the newly introduced immigration laws by the South African government	Khumalo, G.	889

Transportation : a tool to combat challenges in global city regions	Lionjanga, N.	692

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 72

Fatigue management : lessons from international legislation and practice
(Southern African Transport Conference, 2015) Swart, E.; Sinclair, M.
Fatigue is one of the most commonly experienced problems amongst long distance drivers and results in significant, but unrecorded, number of crashes each year. The methodological difficulties associated with diagnosing fatigue have led to a gap in legislation and traffic management practice where fatigue is regarded largely as un-prosecutable. In fact, in many countries including South Africa, fatigue is not fully defined as an offence under traffic legislation, and hence remains a form of driver behaviour that cannot be effectively targeted. There is a move internationally to address fatigue in traffic legislation and to develop new ways of operationalizing it as a traffic offence. Legislation and traffic management practices in Europe and the US particularly are giving effect to a more aggressive approach in which fatigue is treated actively as a prosecutable offence. While it is still too early to tell if this is having a positive effect of crash rates, the reduction in the number of fatigued drivers is seen as a positive step towards the achievement of safer roads. This paper presents some of the international developments in fatigue ? specifically in legislation and methods of fatigue detection - that may have value to road safety practitioners in the South African context.
Aggressive driving behaviour : the case of minibus taxi drivers in Cape Town, South Africa
(Southern African Transport Conference, 2015) Sinclair, M.; Imaniranzi, E.
In South Africa, drivers of minibus taxis are often described as being unlawful, aggressive and sometimes dangerous drivers. Such claims have, however, never been fully substantiated in traffic studies. Previous studies into taxi services focused on taxi drivers? safety perception and risk taking behaviour, factors that contribute to taxis? accidents, and taxi commuters? satisfaction. However, no research has yet been carried out to identify key types of taxi drivers? on-road aggressive behaviour. In this study, the focus is on examining the nature and frequency of the most common types of taxi drivers? aggressive behaviour at three locations in Cape Town. This was achieved through the collection and analysis of video material from these three locations. In addition, interviews were held with taxi drivers to explore their behaviour as well as with other drivers to assess their experiences with taxis. The study found the taxi drivers were statistically more likely to engage in unsafe and aggressive driving practices than other drivers. It identified thirteen different types of aggressive behaviour by taxi drivers ranging from covert and less severe types of aggression on one extreme to overt and highly risky types of aggression on the other. Interviews with ?other drivers? indicated that taxi driver aggression is common, and even self-report surveys by taxi drivers themselves confirmed a significant degree of aggressive behaviour in their everyday driving.
Transport as a servant of trade and its cross-border challenges : a case of Swaziland and the newly introduced immigration laws by the South African government
(Southern African Transport Conference, 2015) Khumalo, G.
The movement of goods and services as well as people is usually through road and rail transportation, especially in the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Swaziland is a landlocked country with its economy heavily dependent on trade with other regions and countries. The fact that Swaziland is a landlocked country means that its trade relations are not only dependent on transport but also on cross-border regulations with the countries it shares its borders with. Regional integration also plays a key role in the countries trade associations. The republic of South Africa happens to be Swaziland?s major trading partner. New immigration laws have been introduced by the Republic of South Africa and they came into effect early 2014. This paper uses Swaziland as a case study to reflect on the issues of new immigration laws, the effect they will have on regional integration which could be achieved through transportation, contribution to already existing cross-border challenges and most importantly, their impact on trade issues, which in this case is the movement of goods and services across borders, as well as the coming in and out of people. Transportation refers to all modes used for the movement of goods, services and people, this includes non-motorised transport, but particular attention will be paid to road transportation. Laws tend to be a hindrance to the flow of goods and service therefore slowing down the economy, however regulation is needed. Their implementation thereof, should be in a manner that will not worsen trade and the transportation system of one country.
Transportation : a tool to combat challenges in global city regions
(Southern African Transport Conference, 2015) Lionjanga, N.
Global City-Regions are regional economies that consist of one or more functionally linked metropolitan areas and their surrounding hinterlands. As an increasing number of regions across the world aim to attain Global City-Region (GCR) status, this paper describes a few of the challenges that are faced by these city-regions, as well as transportation interventions that can be used to combat some of these challenges. Broadly categorised, these challenges include socio-economic challenges as well as land use management challenges such as spatial fragmentation. Through consideration of the integral role that transportation plays in GCRs across the world, particularly the role of transportation interventions and their effects on mobility in the Gauteng City-Region, it was concluded that transportation is indeed a tool, when implemented correctly, which can be used to effectively combat challenges in GCRs.
Effects of land use on trip generation in urban areas : comparison between estimated trip generation rates and planning practices in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
(Southern African Transport Conference, 2015) Wilfred, G.; Bwire, H.; Mattsson, L.; Jonsson, D.
In developing countries cities, the development of planned urban areas is associated with rapid changes in land uses. The number of vehicles trips generation in the planned area is related to the types, patterns and characteristics of land uses in that particular area. However, still it is unclear to what extent the change of land use affect trip generation rates in urban planned areas. This study has examined the effects of land use changes on trip generation rates for different residential land uses. A methodology for deriving trip generation rates for different residential land uses was developed. Additionally, the study made comparisons between vehicles trip generation rates provided in land use and transport planning manuals for local practitioners and rates obtained in the study area. Furthermore, the study identified the factors considered by planners and policy makers in order to reduce the effects of land use change in planned urban areas. This study therefore recommended the need of conducting site or city specific vehicle trip rates rather than adopting trip rates from different transport manuals.
The indicative effects of inefficient urban traffic flow on fuel cost and exhaust air pollutant emissions
(Southern African Transport Conference, 2015) Moselakgomo, M.; Naidoo, M.; Letebele, M.
Poor urban traffic management such as poor intersection controls, congestions, illegal roadway blockages and construction works causes 'stop-go' driving conditions with excessive idling resulting in wasted fuel and increased air pollutant emissions (CO2, CO, NOx, HC, etc.) during idling conditions and acceleration from a stop position due to more energy required to move vehicles from a halt. In this study the effects of traffic signal coordination on fuel cost and gas emissions were investigated by comparing the amount of idling time on streets with coordinated signals to those with uncoordinated signals during the off peak period. It was found that signal coordination can reduce the idling fuel cost by more than 25 cents per kilometre in the CBDs. The possible reductions in idling gas emissions were found to be 80% for CO2 and 77% for both CO and HC. These are significant reductions if the whole CBD network and all the vehicles within the network per annum are taken in to account.
"Looking back, looking forward" : urban development and transport infrastructure in Gauteng Province
(Southern African Transport Conference, 2015) Mubiwa, B.; Mokonyama, M.; Annegarn, H.
Studies have shown that land-use and transportation systems have a two-way dependency. On one hand, the existing land-use structures influence trip distances and transport mode choice, while on the other hand transport infrastructure and systems have the potential to alter existing urban spatial structures. This paper qualitatively and quantitatively assesses one direction of this reciprocal relationship: the influences of transport infrastructure on urban development and mobility. It evaluates how past land-use (urban) development patterns in the Gauteng Province of South Africa may have been influenced by road and rail transport networks, including train stations. Following a time series analysis of Landsat satellite derived land-use change at three decadal intervals (1991, 2001 and 2009), spatial analysis of corridor (ribbon/linear) development was assessed using a series of urban growth maps in conjunction with transport infrastructure. Effects of transport infrastructure on land use development were assessed by analysing urban growth densities within buffer zones of major roads and railway stations, at 0.5 km intervals. Results show that despite suburban sprawl, transport infrastructure has enhanced corridor development in some areas of Gauteng Province over the last two decades, especially between 2001 and 2009.
Framework for sustainable walking and cycling within the City of Polokwane, South Africa : a comparative assessment
(Southern African Transport Conference, 2015) Ligege, A.; Nyarirangwe, M.
The role of Non-Motorized Transport (NMT) in meeting the daily mobility and accessibility needs particularly among the middle to low income households cannot be overemphasized. Apart from affordability reasons, the mode is fast gaining a lot of attention among transport planners, engineers and policy makers. Some reasons behind the change in ethos from heavy focus on motorized vehicular transport to NMT include environmental sustainability, rising fuel prices, traffic congestion, etc. The City of Polokwane has over the past few years recognized the important role played by the NMT mode in meeting the transport and travel needs of the local communities. The recent local Household Travel Survey has indicated that walking is the most dominant mode in Polokwane, constituting about 52% of household modal split. The City has through the 2030 Smart City Vision and Smart Mobility Goal streamlined NMT provisioning as a critical element in redefining the way urban space is utilized. A number of strategies has since been developed with the aim of providing a safe and secure environment for walking and cycling within the city. This paper interrogates the approach that the City of Polokwane adopted in realizing its goal. It focuses on the NMT programs that are being rolled out whose aim is to change the mindset of different road users regarding NMT, as well as creating a safe and secure environment for users. The paper further draws important comparisons between City of Polokwane?s approach and experience from other cities where NMT programs have been successfully implemented. The paper largely depended on available secondary data, including NMT policies, strategies and plans of the different cities which were reviewed.
The universally accessible intersection
(Southern African Transport Conference, 2015) Frieslaar, A.; Thompson, P.; Frieslaar, R.
The National Department of Transport?s Vision of the Public Transport Action Plan encourages the utilisation of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) as part of Integrated Rapid Transport Networks (IPTN?s), in conjunction with rail and conventional bus systems that can still play a role where they are appropriate and cost effective. The roll out of BRT is currently being pursued in all of the major cities in South Africa and by a variety of infrastructure consultants. The directive from NDOT is that the infrastructure and services of these BRT systems are universally accessible (UA). The intersection is the area where passengers access the BRT system or gain safe access across the street, and it is where the most focus and input is required to accommodate all users regardless of disability. The numerous consultants working on the various systems have interpreted the UA guidelines in different manners. This paper presents a case for a particular approach to creating the ?universally accessible intersection?, based on a set of design principles and guidelines.
Feasibility study on traffic decongestion strategies at Maseru bridge border post
(Southern African Transport Conference, 2015) Serero, G.; Van Jaarsveld, G.; De Abreu, V.; Brislin, A.
The decongestion strategy of Maseru Bridge was informed by a research exercise investigating different border post decongestion measures and border precinct typologies. Generic design parameters for border post decongestion strategies were compiled. Each measure and typology was evaluated against the generic design parameters. A short list of three decongestion strategies was determined. The capacity requirements of each was determined based on data surveys at the existing border crossing which determined the travel needs for light vehicles, public transport vehicles, freight vehicles and pedestrians. Design years and directional and seasonal peaks were taken into consideration when the patronage forecast was estimated. A spreadsheet based queueing model was developed to determine the number of entry lanes, number of parking bays and queueing capacity required for each decongestion strategy. The model took consideration of a large variety of design related constraints or parameters. The generic design parameters in conjunction with the capacity requirements as provided by the queueing model were taken into account in the conceptual design of the different border precincts.
Variations in traffic count data
(Southern African Transport Conference, 2015) Chauke, V.
Traffic counts are the most basic input into transport planning studies, yet there is the potential for errors to propagate within the data collection process that can result in uncertainty in the final collected data. If left unaccounted for, these errors have the potential to skew transport planning and traffic engineering decision making. Multi-million Rand infrastructure projects are born out of studies based on this data. This paper explores variations in traffic flow data observed from a variety of traffic count surveys. It considers measurement errors that are inherent in manual and automatic counts, and explores the impact of outliers and seasonality adjustments, as well as the concept of an average day in traffic data summaries. Local and international data sources have been applied in a case study to demonstrate the likely outcome of variations in analytical results when using erroneous traffic count data. The paper also draws conclusions about the potential implications to policy and decision-making and offers suggestions about the role that planning authorities in all spheres of government should play in controlling the quality of data used in transportation studies.
Drone-based traffic flow estimation and tracking using computer vision
(Southern African Transport Conference, 2015) De Bruin, A.; Booysen, M.
Traffic management has become increasingly important with growth in vehicle numbers unmatched by investment in infrastructure. A large part of management is measuring traffic flow. Video footage of traffic flow is normally manually checked to determine key traffic metrics, consuming many human hours. Moreover, installation and maintenance cost of recording equipment and supporting infrastructure is substantial, especially in the Sub-Saharan context. This paper proposes a novel solution to automate traffic flow estimation, using computer vision. The paper also introduces the notion of making the recording equipment mobile by using drone-based equipment, negating the need for fixed recording installations. The results demonstrate measurement accuracies of 100% down to 81% from ideal to worst case conditions, and successful implementation of drone control algorithms.
Non-intrusive detection, the way forward
(Southern African Transport Conference, 2015) Beyer, P.
With an increasing demand on our transportation networks, it is important to design and implement effective detection systems, for numerous reasons it can also be advantageous if these systems can be non-intrusive. Implementation of a detection system needs careful consideration, as there is a wide variety of technologies available on the market, each with its own characteristic strength and weakness. The strengths of a specific technology, will in most cases determine whether the detection system is suitable for the desired application. Other factors which can easily be overlooked, during the planning of detection system installation is: life span, maintenance and operating costs of the equipment. Environmental influences are also important to bear in mind, as the specific environment into which a chosen system is to be deployed, will in many instances affect the choice of the detection system. From the most basic detection technologies to more advanced systems. We provide a series of examples, based on tests conducted throughout South Africa and also studies conducted overseas. These examples demonstrate how these detection systems are deployed, and how they operate in a real life environment. The intent of this paper is to present an approach to the design and implementation of a detection system, ensuring that we make use of the best detection solutions.
Assessment of traffic congestion in the central areas (CBD) of South African cities : a case study of Kimberly city
(Southern African Transport Conference, 2015) Das, D.; Keetse, M.
Traffic congestion is a challenge leading to undesirable consequences in most of the cities of the world. Many large and medium cities of South Africa, specifically the central business districts (CBD) are facing this challenge and are severely affected by this mobility problem. One such city, Kimberley, because of its unique physical, spatial, road network, economic characteristics and requirement of the mobility of heavy vehicles in addition to the normal city traffic faces typical traffic congestion challenges in its CBD area, particularly during the peak hours, which warranted this investigation. So, the objective of this paper is two-fold. First, it examines the various relevant empirical models available and their implication on the assessment of traffic congestion in CBDs under different scenarios. Second, it evaluates the degree of traffic congestion (Level of Service (LOS)) in the roads of CBD area and explores a possible mechanism to ease the problem. The study was conducted based on the critical review of relevant literature to understand the control variables influencing traffic congestion, and examination of the applicability of relevant empirical models for assessing traffic congestion. Followed by the most relevant empirical models were employed to assess the level of traffic congestion and observe possible solutions to ease the traffic congestion in the roads of the CBD area of the Kimberley City. The study revealed that there is appreciable level of traffic congestion in some of the roads of the CBD area of the Kimberley City, specifically during the peak hours, which needs strategic intervention. A reengineering solution, such as, traffic diversion from the congested roads to the underutilised or least congested roads could assist in easing the traffic congestion, increase in speed and reduction in travel time resulting into optimal utilisation of all the roads in the CBD area of the city.
Financing IRPTN operations : considerations for cities implementing I(R)PTNs in South Africa
(Southern African Transport Conference, 2015) Von der Heyden, C.; Laing,K.; Hastings, E.; Koch, P.; Reddy, T.
The case for investment in road-based public transport in South Africa is provided in the Public Transport Strategy for South Africa (2007) and subsequent policy positions by the national Department of Transport (DOT). This gave rise to the Integrated (Rapid) Public Transport Networks (I(R)PTNs) to be implemented in then 12 (now 13) priority cities. To support this implementation, the national Department of Transport created a conditional grant to the priority municipalities, first called the Public Transport Infrastructure Fund (PTIF), then the Public Transport Infrastructure and Systems Grant (PTISG) and now the Public Transport Infrastructure Grant (PTIG) and the Public Transport Network Operations Grant (PTNOG). Planning, establishment and rollout of the I(R)PTNs in the 13 cities, over the seven years to 2014, has highlighted the real costs of these systems. There is an emerging recognition of the extent of the I(R)PTN operational costs. Initial expectations were that fare income from passengers would cover the operating costs (at least the direct operating costs) of the system. However, implementation in a number of cities to date has shown that the fare box is not sufficient to cover the direct operating costs of the I(R)PTNs, unless the fares in the new system are increased significantly above the current costs of existing public transport. Such an increase would not be economically feasible for passengers and consequently introduce unacceptable affordability issues and open the way for competition with the I(R)PTN. As a result, cities have to consider alternative avenues to finance the direct operating costs of their I(R)PTNs. Some income sources are directly related to the new transport system (including advertising on the I(R)PTNs and congestion charges), some are commercial revenue options, and some are funding options from Municipal resources (eg increases in the rates bill, equitable share, services income). This paper explores the range of income options available to cities and the potential contribution to offsetting the shortfall. Based on the evidence to date, the operational shortfalls of I(R)PTNs in South Africa are greater than anticipated and, despite the opportunities for additional funding explored here, it is likely that significant shortfalls will remain. This presents a financial risk for city treasuries with whom rests the ultimate responsibility for covering the I(R)PTN costs. A continued conversation about funding for I(R)PTNs is therefore urgently required.
Testing the impact and feasibility of 30 km/h speed limit zones at schools
(Southern African Transport Conference, 2015) Lambert, F.; Venter, C.J. (Christoffel Jacobus)
Local authorities such as the City of Tshwane (CoT) Municipality are confronted on a daily basis with road traffic safety challenges around schools. School principals, councillors, parents, scholars and neighbourhood residents approach local authorities for assistance to address unlawful driver behaviour and implement remedial measures to enhance the safety of scholars at schools. One potential countermeasure is the implementation of 30 km/h speed limit zones at schools. However, such speed limit zones to improve pedestrian safety on lower order roads around schools are not common in South Africa. Very little before-and-after data are available to understand and evaluate the effectiveness of such zones. The objective of this study was to measure the effectiveness of introducing a 30 km/h speed limit zone strategy at schools, where high pedestrian activity and non-motorised transport are present and can be endangered by vehicular traffic. Thirty kilometre per hour speed limit school zone signs were designed and installed to enforce a 30 km/h speed limit for specific periods of time during school arrival and departure times. Three school sites in different areas in the City of Tshwane Municipality were selected as case study sites. Before-and-after speed data were used to test the hypothesis that the 30 km/h speed limit zone has no effect on the mean and variance of speed. The results showed that the speeds recorded after the implementation of the 30 km/h speed limit school zone signs varied between 30 km/h and 35 km/h at all the sites. The mean speed at all the sites was lower than before, for both passenger and public transport vehicles. A control site was also used to ensure that the results were not caused by spurious fluctuations. Qualitative feedback from the schools showed widespread acceptance of the measure. The results of this study show that international best practice initiatives can be applied with great success and that 30 km/h speed limit school zones can contribute to safer roads and support the National Road Safety Strategy to reduce the increasing trend in road traffic fatalities.
Running dry : assessing the fuel levy as a long term, economically efficient road use fund
(Southern African Transport Conference, 2015) Van Rensburg, J.; Krygsman, S.
The fuel levy, a domestic transport cost component added to the basic fuel price, has long been South Africa?s main source of income to fund the construction and maintenance of roads as well as lend support to public transport (National Treasury, 2014b). During the 2012 / 2013 financial year the fuel levy contributed R40.4 billion to the National Revenue Fund administered by National Treasury (The Citizen, 2013). Of this amount, R17.6 billion (44.0%) and R19.9 billion (49.0%) were allocated to the road and public transport sectors respectively. Recent comments regarding the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project (e-toll) has raised questions and strong opinions about the continuing use of the fuel levy as the main or only source of income from road users to fund land transport operations and infrastructure in South Africa. The aim of this paper is to assess if a review of the fuel levy is needed, and to be supplemented or replaced by a viable alternative, in order to secure a long term sustainable income source for the country?s aging transport road infrastructure. This paper will provide a historic overview of the South African fuel levy, from its origins in the 1920?s to the present day and will review the current demands on the fund. This will be followed by a comparison between the fuel levy in South Africa and other countries, including selected BRICS nations and selected European countries. Various societal trends will then be considered including alternative fuels, electrical and more fuel efficient vehicles and the impact of these trends on the fuel levy will be assessed. It was found through this assessment that alternative fuels, electrical and more fuel efficient vehicles have had an impact on the fuel levy whereby the registered vehicle population in South Africa grew with 47.2 % between the periods 2003 to 2012. For the same periods the vehicle kilometres driven by the registered vehicle population grew with 38.5 % while the fuel sales only grew by 21.9 %. This had a result where the fuel levy is losing productivity by experiencing declining revenues. The paper concludes that a review of the current fuel levy is needed, as increasing the fuel levy each year will only be a temporary solution. An alternative financing mechanism must be implemented that is not affected by societal trends.
IRPTN vehicle financing options and considerations
(Southern African Transport Conference, 2015) Koch, P.; Von der Heyden, C.; De Stadler, S.; Hastings, E.; Strano, D.
The roll-out of comprehensive public transport networks in our major cities is requiring considerable up-front investment by government. The acquisition of the bus fleet presents the second largest component of capital expenditure by the implementing municipalities. Various fleet financing models have been adopted including the use of national grant funding and debt. This paper sets out to describe the various financing models that have been used to date and highlight their implications with respect to various criteria including cost, risk and complexity. The paper then moves on to discuss the concern of municipal treasuries surrounding the potential consolidation of the buses onto the books of the municipalities and evaluates the effectiveness of the move to finance the buses ?off-balance sheet?. The rationale for the National Department of Transport?s (?NDOT?) preference for the use of Export Credit Agency financing (?ECAs?) as the financing route of choice is also discussed. The paper then addresses the outcomes of an on- versus off-balance sheet financing structure, and the implications on both the financing model and the underlying institutional structure. An alternate model is then introduced which proposes a hybrid between the debt financing options used thus far in an attempt to mitigate the short comings present in the existing models.
Public transport interventions and transport justice in South Africa : a literature and policy review
(Southern African Transport Conference, 2015) Jennings, G.
Although transportation is a field of government intervention in which consideration of justice traditionally has played only a marginal role (Martens & Golub, 2011), there is a rapidly growing body of international literature on transport justice or equity ? a more fair, equitable distribution of the benefits and disadvantages of transportation interventions. There is also an increasing interest in transport justice in South Africa, articulated largely as policies or interventions that reduce the consequences of transport disadvantage: improved accessibility and the reduction of poverty and transport-related social exclusion. This interest has to some extent been catalysed by the introduction of Bus Rapid Transport (BRT) systems and the hopes these have raised for improved and equitable mobility. The paper begins with an overview of the major discourses around transportation justice or equity, then considers the policies and public transport interventions proposed in South Africa through an equity ?lens?. Data includes only peer-reviewed, published literature and public policy; not included in the review are anecdote, media release, and marketing materials. Key words used to source the literature include social equity, social justice, transportation poverty, social impacts, accessibility, transportation disadvantage, sustainable livelihoods, poverty alleviation, and more recently social exclusion/inclusion. This paper forms part of a body of work commissioned by WWF Low-Carbon Transport Project, to contribute to a discussion regarding the way in which public transport interventions are planned, prioritised and evaluated. Although the peer-reviewed literature suggests that South Africa?s new public transport systems have failed to achieve a significant impact on poverty or transport disadvantage, this paper proposes that alternative evaluation approaches ? in both the planning and the impact assessment phases ? might lead to a more nuanced understanding of any benefits achieved.
Intersection and signal design for BRT : challenges, lessons learned & the road ahead
(Southern African Transport Conference, 2015) Frieslaar, A.; Jones, J.; Van der Merwe, L.; Dlamini, B.
The National Department of Transport?s Vision of the Public Transport Action Plan encourages the utilisation of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) as part of Integrated Rapid Transport Networks (IPTN?s). The roll out of BRT is currently being pursued in all of the major cities in South Africa. The design and signalisation of intersections needs to comply with the South African Road Traffic Signs Manual (SARTSM) in order to be legal. The SARTSM was drafted prior to BRT being envisaged and as yet has not been modified to adapt to the demands of the road based public transport requirements. The implementation of the SARTSM to active BRT projects is discussed, as are the challenges of conforming to SARTSM and the lessons learned from observations in the field. Alternative signalisation techniques have been implemented internationally to manage bus and light rail systems in street networks. The paper reviews various good international examples of these techniques with a view to encouraging decision makers within South Africa to update the SARTSM and hopefully improve the legibility of traffic signals at these complex BRT junctions and hence improve the safety of all road users.

Browse

Recent Submissions