such an expansion, it is first considered necessary to remove the existing problems in terms of safety and convenience, etc. that currently exist in the public transport system. Attention should first be paid to the networks of the existing public transport system. Public transport is basically a linear system of transport linking together stations and bus stops and, because users need to make numerous changeovers and have good access in order to complete their trips, development of lines and routes alone is not enough. Put another way, seen from the users' viewpoint, stronger linkage between different forms of public transport is necessary, and it would now be desirable to review the current networks and functions of each form of transport, specialize in strong transport areas and clarify roles to be played.
Such a comprehensive adjustment of the public transport system is the responsibility of the Government of South Africa and not something for the writers to become involved with, however, the following suggestions are made.
1)Because urban transport is an issue which should be dealt with on the local level, it is desirable to tackle problems based on the principles of local autonomy and self responsibility.
2)As the railway, buses and taxis are the composite elements of the public transport system, it is important to work to build a mutual linkage between the three. To achieve this, it is desirable to establish a body that can comprehensively examine each system.
Next, it is necessary to strive for a qualitative improvement in the level of services currently being provided by public modes of transport. Regarding the railway, the decline in safety standards brought about by the incidence of crime, etc. one hears and reads about in the mass media is considered to be an extremely serious problem. As services provided to be of benefit to the public, it is absolutely essential that public modes of transport are safe to use. If expansion of rail usage is to be seriously aimed for, it will first be necessary to aggressively tackle the issue of crime prevention.
Regarding buses and minibuses, in terms of corporate capacity it is considered that the maximum possible service is now being provided, however, room for improvement still remains in the areas of securing more frequent services and greater passenger comfort, etc. Moreover, examination also needs to be made with a view to integrating the sector with the rail system.
