By: Nkhensani Khanyi and Mpho Ntlhabyane
 
Forming part of accountability and transparency, the Department appeared before the Province’s Portfolio Committee of Roads and Logistics to give a report on budget adjustments. It also provided an update on the integration of public transport in the province.
 
The Department was joined by the metropolitan cities of Johannesburg, Tshwane and Ekurhuleni. The public meeting took place on Thursday, 08 February 2024 at the Zonkizizwe Community Hall in Katlehong, City of Ekurhuleni. Committee meetings are also open to members of the community where they are afforded a platform to raise concerns.
 
In his report, COO for g-FleeT Dr Petrus Mabunda highlighted that a budget adjustment of R1, 5 billion was allocated to the Department. He added the adjustments were tabled in November 2023. Dr Mabunda further indicated the Department had commenced spending immediately after tabling.
 
On the provision of quality road infrastructure, DDG: Roads Mr Mmaphuthi Mokobane indicated the funds were used to complete outstanding projects that included the Road P241 (R554), the damaged Hendrik Potgieter bridge as well as K101 (Old Pretoria Road). 
 
MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela addressed the issues of delays affecting certain projects, attributing this to challenges in the procurement processes. She specifically mentioned setbacks related to road project K31 (Beyers Naude Drive) where issues of poor workmanship were encountered and later abandonment of site. She added the contract was terminated, with a two-month period allocated to finalise necessary supply chain documentation. 
 
These processes have since been completed and the Department is now working on appointing a new contractor to continue with the project. DDG: Transport Mr Motubatse Motubatse, in his report, noted that they are looking at investing largely in projects related to integration of transport systems. This, he added, will be key to improving public transportation in the province. 
 
Highlighting progress on the establishment and functionality of the logistics branch, Head of Department Dr Thulani Mdadane, said the executive committee has approved the branch in the third quarter of the fiscal year. The idea is to institutionalise and operationalise the branch, with an approved implementation plan as well as the interim structure. The Department will continue to provide the Committee with regular progress updates on quarterly basis until completion and closure of the projects.
 
Related to new integrated transport systems, the Cities of Johannesburg, Tshwane and Ekurhuleni through their MMC’s gave presentations on their municipalities’ contributions towards the integrated transport system in the province. Other important matters that needed attention include the transaction clearing house, technology suppliers, transit authorities and operators amongst others. 
 
The committee heard that a single payment mechanism should ensure economic inclusion and assist businesses. This will ensure stimulation of local economic development, particularly in townships. It further heard that any payment platforms adopted by Gauteng Province should consider linkages to the informal economy, to assist with access to banking infrastructure and micro-financing. 
 
Both the MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela and Head of Department Dr Thulani Mdadane welcomed these developments, pledged to improve the lives of the people in Gauteng. They also promoted the adoption of technology and allowing innovation to change the transport experience for the better.
 
 MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela made a plea to communities to discourage vandalism of public infrastructure. She said safeguarding these vital assets is important as this adversely impact the budget. By averting unnecessary expenditures on repairing or replacing vandalised infrastructure, communities can allocate resources more efficiently.