The campaign aims to promote responsible road-user behaviour, roadworthy vehicles and reliable public transport, while strengthening partnerships between government, industry, educational institutions and communities.

The launch featured a career exhibition which demonstrated transport technology that could reduce fuel consumption and emissions. It also showcased hybrid bus technology aimed at introducing learners to career opportunities in the transport sector, including engineering, vehicle maintenance, logistics and clean-energy technology.

Community safety, roads and transport MEC Jabu Mbalula said the responsibility of a transport system is to protect human lives. “A more modern bus means little if the roads which it travels are unsafe, so in Transport Month we renew our commitment to safer roads, roadworthy vehicles, responsible driving and reliable public transport.”

The theme is Building a Safe, Sustainable, Reliable and Affordable Transport System, speaking directly to the realities of the province characterised by vast distances, rural communities and economic centres separated by kilometres of roads.

“Transport matters because it connects farmers to markets, patients to health care facilities, learners to centres of education, and a worker to an economic opportunity.”

MMC Logan Kruger and MEC Jabu Mbalula. Photo: Siyakholwa Mbatyazwa

Mangaung public safety and transport MMC Logan Kruger said the metro was pleased to host the launch, which brought together government, industry and young people to explore the future of sustainable transport.

Transport plays an important role in economic development, social integration and connecting people to opportunities, she added.

“The exhibition of hybrid electric bus technology represents an important opportunity to advance cleaner, more efficient and environmentally sustainable transportation.”

However, technological advancement must ultimately be measured by its ability to improve people’s lives. Modern transport must not only be environmentally sustainable, but also affordable, accessible and responsive to the needs of ordinary citizens.

The goal of the campaign is to inspire the next generation of transport professionals while promoting a transport system that is safe, reliable, efficien and environmentally sustainable.

“We must build a transport system that brings opportunity closer to people, restores dignity and ensures that where a person lives, does not determine how far they can go in life,” said Mbalula.

OFM News/Siyakholwa Mbatyazwa sm

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