Thumbs up for Durban municipality’s transport for the disabled

The eThekwini Municipality’s Dial-a-Ride service has now expanded its vehicle capabilities to accommodate the disabled.

As someone with a mother who needs to get to and from dialysis three times a week public transport for her has been somewhat limited.

Having no luck in finding a taxi hailing company that could assist her and her wheelchair with getting in and out of a taxi and to and from dialysis, doing it ourselves has been the only other option. It’s proved to be pretty tricky while we’ve had to fit it in with our work hours etc.

Although the service is not yet available in our area, we hope that more companies like this inspire other services to expand and accommodate those with disabilities.

Dial-a-ride currently has 3500 registered members and only operates in Durban. With an average fare of R2 a kilometer, a trip should cost around R10 – R14 depending on the distance.

The service operates on weekdays from 05:30 to 19:30 and on weekends from 06:00 to 19:00.

Ethekwini Municipality Mayor, Councillor James Nxumalo told The Highway Mail that Dial-a Rise is a public demand responsive transport service for people with disabilities.

“Through design of the new network using UA principles, more people will be able to use the system independently, freeing up our para-transit services, like Dial-A-Ride, to people who have needs which preclude them from using public transport at all.”

“The Dial-A-Ride service provides an efficient and safe interim measure as we forge ahead with our plans for GO!Durban, which will provide a seamless and affordable transport experience for our citizens,” said Cllr Nxumalo.

To pre register and for more details click here.

Image via Go Durban Facebook