Disability rights groups in the Western Cape have called on Parliament to amend the National Land Transport Act, saying inaccessible and unreliable public transport continues to exclude people with disabilities.
By YASEEN BARDIEN
Members of the Western Cape Network on Disability (WCND) gathered outside Parliament on Wednesday, December 3, to call for urgent amendments to South Africa’s National Land Transport Act (NLTA), demanding equitable, reliable and accessible public transport for people with disabilities.
The handover coincided with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, underscoring the long-standing barriers people with disabilities continue to face when navigating the country’s transport system.
Although the demonstration began with only a few people present, more supporters were expected. Those who arrived early stood in solidarity with wheelchairs and walking aids, emphasising the significance of the moment.
The NLTA is South Africa’s primary law regulating public transport. WCND’s petition argues that although the Act refers to accessibility, its provisions remain discretionary and poorly enforced, resulting in ongoing exclusion from employment, education, healthcare and social participation.
Many attendees expressed frustration with the under-resourced Dial-a-Ride service, describing it as inconsistent and unreliable.
Luvuyo Zondani, a paraplegic and chairperson of the Western Cape Black Disability Forum, criticised Dial-a-Ride for refusing to operate in poorer areas and for prioritising wheelchair users over people with other disabilities, including those who are blind or have mobility challenges. He added that the service does not allow travel for leisure activities.
‘Dial-a-Ride is a challenge to be accessible for everyone. It does not want to go to townships; they only want wheelchair users,’ he said.
Despite these concerns, Zondani remained hopeful that the petition would lead to change. ‘Today is a victory, highlighting the troubles facing people with disabilities.’
Lilley Berrington, who is blind and walks with a cane, said she avoids public transport because she does not feel safe. She lives in Stellenbosch, an area not served by MyCiTi buses. While she uses Uber, the cost is high and some drivers refuse to pick her up because of her guide dog.
‘We hope to create further consultation with the disability sector,’ she said.
WCND’s proposed amendments to the NLTA include:
- Making accessibility requirements mandatory for all transport authorities and service providers
- Establishing national, enforceable standards for accessible public transport
- Legally requiring consultation with organisations of persons with disabilities in transport planning and design
- Strengthening oversight and accountability mechanisms within the Department of Transport
- Recognising transport access as a fundamental human right essential to equality, dignity and social participation
The petition also calls for the creation of advisory bodies led by persons with disabilities, mandatory disability-sensitivity training for transport staff (including around non-apparent disabilities), improved infrastructure and vehicle standards, and a National Land Transport Accessibility Fund.
Anthony Ghillino, WCND chairperson, said that if adopted, the amendments would help create a dignified and inclusive transport system.
‘By incorporating these amendments, the NLTA would transition from a well-intentioned framework to a powerful and precise legislative tool capable of delivering a truly inclusive, equitable and dignified land transport system for all South Africans with disabilities.’
The petition was accepted by Sizathu Makana from Parliamentary Protection Services on behalf of Advocate Angeline Ephraim, Procedural Officer at the National Assembly.
