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To: Barbara Creecy, Minister of Transport
Enforce Stricter Safety Measures for Long-Distance Transportation
Background:
Many South Africans are misled by long-distance transport companies like Africa People Mover (APM), which lack accountability and fail to meet safety standards. These buses operate without proper infrastructure and appear to prey on unsuspecting passengers at major transport hubs. Such practices result in stress and chaos for thousands of low-income travellers. See testimonials
Many South Africans are misled by long-distance transport companies like Africa People Mover (APM), which lack accountability and fail to meet safety standards. These buses operate without proper infrastructure and appear to prey on unsuspecting passengers at major transport hubs. Such practices result in stress and chaos for thousands of low-income travellers. See testimonials
The festive season highlights this crisis as breadwinners and families take to the roads, eager to reunite with their loved ones. The mismanagement and unsafe practices of some transport operators cannot be ignored any longer.
The Demands:
- Immediate investigation into APM and similar operators for their non-compliance with transport regulations.
- Government intervention to ensure safer conditions for long-distance travel.
- Implementation of affordable and sustainable alternatives for intercity transport.
- A proactive approach to regulate companies that exploit the transportation needs of South Africans.
We call on the Department of Transport and the Business Ombudsman to act decisively and ensure safety, dignity, and affordability for all those traveling long distances.
Why is this important?
Long-distance transportation is more than just a service; it is a lifeline for millions of South Africans, especially during the festive season when families reunite across the country. However, the current state of certain operators, like APM, reflects a dangerous negligence that puts the lives of hard-working South Africans at risk. With buses that fail safety checks, a lack of accountability, and operations that disregard passenger dignity, the situation has become dire. By joining this campaign, you can be part of a movement to demand safer and more reliable transport for everyone.
Transportation is not a luxury—it's a necessity. Many of the affected individuals are breadwinners who travel to rural areas and small towns to spend time with loved ones. These individuals should not have to compromise their safety due to financial constraints or limited travel options. Companies that exploit affordability to lure passengers without ensuring safety have no place in the industry. Together, we can push for stricter safety laws and enforcement, ensuring the government and transport authorities take immediate action to prevent tragic incidents and improve conditions.
Public pressure is one of the most effective tools for change. Politicians and decision-makers are more likely to act when they see a unified voice standing against injustice. Holding companies accountable, such as APM, requires the collective power of individuals like you demanding transparency, safety, and dignity for all passengers. Your voice can encourage the government to put in place stricter regulations, unearth unethical practices, and establish sustainable, affordable transportation alternatives.
A united campaign sends a clear message to the Department of Transport and the Business Ombudsman: South Africans will not settle for unsafe, exploitative, and poorly regulated transportation systems. By signing and sharing this petition, you help amplify the voices of those who depend on these services daily. Together, we can push for a transport system that values peoples’ lives, ensures roadworthiness, and prioritizes affordability for all South Africans. This is not just a campaign—this is a step toward societal fairness, safety, and dignity.