Soccer world cup accelerates transport infrastructure plans

RAY SMUTS THE BANE of many motorists’ lives – those infuriating, constant, horn-blasting taxis – often intent on dominating the roadways – could well be a phenomenon of the past, judging from transport minister Jeff Radebe’s observations last week. In a rushed visit to the Cape Times/Safmarine Breakfast Club at the Mount Nelson Hotel recently, Radebe said it was encouraging that 80% of taxi operators nationwide had applied for the conversion from permits to operating licences, including 7 600 in the Western Cape alone. A good deal of Radebe’s address was devoted to preparations for the 2010 Soccer World cup, including a transportation agenda dedicating R3.5 billion to transport infrastructure, over and above R240 million already allocated to municipalities for their preparations. “What 2010 has done is accelerate our plans. All these investments are not going to be wasted but will leave a lasting legacy for our people.” Having dealt with the millions of rand to be expended on improving airport facilities throughout the country – Airports Company SA has been allocated R52 billion to prepare for this world class event – Radebe says funds have also been allocated for expansion of South African ports.