Giyani - The construction of the much-awaited R350 million Thohoyandou bus and taxi terminus in Limpopo is progressing well, with 70% of the structure completed.
Officials from the provincial Roads and Transport Department officially launched the project in Thohoyandou this week.
"Our aim is to improve the lives of commuters, especially women and kids who have to brave rainy weather in the old taxi ranks waiting for taxis to take them home. With this one, the commuters will not only be safe from bad weather, but will also enjoy a service in a world class environment," said Lucent Ramakgopa, who is the department's senior manager of freight and public transport projects.
Ramakgopa said the project was the first in the province and it was expected that it would be completed in May next year.
The taxi rank has two floors, which together are expected to accommodate 169 taxis. It is expected to benefit more than 27 000 passengers, most of whom commute between Thohoyandou and the surrounding villages on a daily basis.
The senior manager added that similar taxi ranks are also planned for Giyani, Burgersfort, Musina, Makhado, Lephalale and Jane Furse.
"When you look at these areas you have long distance taxis coming in and out, but there's no direction, it's just a mix where everybody goes in and out. With this idea we want to introduce something that would be dignifying to our people," Ramakgopa said.
Vhembe district mayor Baldwin Matibe said the project would also benefit street vendors who will have stalls to sell their goods.
"The contribution that these people will make to the society would result in the growth of our municipality. At seventy-three percent construction, the project is not too far from completion," said Matibe.
Street vendor Elisa Mudau, who sells pap and meat, said the municipality should start inviting people to rent the market stalls planned for the taxi rank.
"My only concern is what criteria they will use to accommodate people in the market stalls because everyone is hoping to secure space," said Mudau. - Sanews.gov.za
