Intelligent transportation system as an effective remedy to improve the public transportation in South Africa

Abstract

South African transportation is generally observed as uncoordinated with hitches and pitfalls. The ease of public transportation movement is highly dangerous with unguaranteed safety and comfort. Despite the funds budgeted for public transport restructuring and management in South Africa running into billions, the situation is still left exasperated. However, the solution to the transport system is rather a long-term infrastructure plan in which improvement can be achieved in a piece meal manner. This study provides a solution to the challenges faced in public transportation by improving the public transport system via application of Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) to improve safety and reduce congestion resulting to a sustainable and efficient transportation system. Quantitative analysis was carried out on public transportation vehicle owners, drivers, public transportation users and non-users within Free State to assess the current state of public transportation that could potentially be solved by ITS and the challenges likely to be faced. The use of questionnaires was used to assist in identifying elements needed for successful integration of ITS into South African Public Transportation.