The opening of the high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes to public transport and cars carrying more than three passengers was hailed as a success by Gauteng provincial minister for public transport, roads and works Ignatius Jacobs on Tuesday.
”We believe that we were successful because the unveiling gives birth to a new way of using limited road space, such as dedicated lanes for public transport and private cars with three or more occupants,” Jacobs said.
He added that all Gauteng communities needed to play a meaningful role in finding a sustainable solution for mobility in the province.
October has been identified by the Department of Transport as Transport Month, which serves to encourage motorists to use public transport to avoid traffic congestion.
The HOV lanes are operational on the M1 North, between Southgate Mall and the Crown Interchange and on the Ben Schoeman Highway.
The lanes can be used from 6am to 9am and from 4pm to 6:30pm.
”We are confident that more people will participate as we proceed throughout this week,” Jacobs said.
Motorists can use the dedicated lanes until Friday. — Sapa