DIAL-A-RIDE TRANSPORT CRISIS DEEPENS

THE SA Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) is investigating two complaints against the City of Cape Town's Dial-a-Ride service, following its announcement to exclusively transport eligible wheelchair users, excluding the blind community.

- GENEVIEVE SERRA

Blind commuters, many of whom work in and around the City, have been given until September 8 to find alternative transport to their workplaces, as the Dial-a-Ride service said it was oversubscribed and suffering severe capacity challenges with its R28.2 million annual budget being insufficient for the current R40 million operating costs.

They announced that effective September 8, the service will exclusively transport eligible wheelchair users and those with severe walking impairments between Monday to Friday during peak periods, with minimal weekend and public holiday services for work-related travel. The trips will be strictly between work and home and not recreational activities. The Western Cape Network on Disability has since called on the City to halt their restrictions, engage with role players, and commit to implementing a fully accessible, integrated public transport system in line with the Constitution.

The SAHRC yesterday confirmed they received complaints against the City’s Dial-a-Ride service.

"To confirm that the WCPO (Western Cape Provincial Office) has received two complaints in this regard. To confirm that there are matters currently under investigation as lodged against Dial-a-Ride."