Rustenburg rapid transport : progress, challenges and innovations on the implementation of the IPTN

Abstract

Integrated Public Transport Networks (IPTNs) are provisioned by the Department of Transport to amongst other objectives formalise the affected minibus taxi industry, integrated various modes of transport and improve accessibility. Rustenburg Local Municipality has been implementing extensive infrastructure for the IPTN since 2012 and to date over 24 kilometres of exclusive right-of-way lanes constructed on two corridors and the CBD, 80 kilometres of non-motorised transport walkway, and interim bus depot completed. Since August 2022, operations have commenced using 10 low-entry buses, 35 mini-buses taxis operating 10 routes and an account-based ticketing system commissioned in partnership with SANRAL. Over 200 vehicles have been removed with their operating licenses cancelled and removed from the affected routes. This paper reports on progress, challenges & innovations on the implementation of various components of the IPTN project including infrastructure development which some, are under construction, fleet procurement and inclusive industry transition drive. Some of the innovations include the inclusion of re-branded mini-bus taxis surrendered as part of the compensation agreement. These vehicles were fitted with automated fare collection system to operate a rationalised service, complementing IPTN buses. Through this arrangement, the City has been able to clear all minibus taxi operators in Phase 1A corridor and envisages limited and rationalised minibus taxis operating to complement buses over the long term. The city has performed extensive marketing and communications campaigns which have ensured the project remains catalytic, using main stream and social media, activations