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MyCiti bus service launch applauded
The inaugural service of Cape Town's MyCiTi bus transport system has officially been launched. The first phase, which was introduced on May 9, runs between Table View and the city centre and signalled a milestone for the transformation of public transport in Cape Town.
It services Bloubergstrand and Table View and accommodation providers in the area are excited about the launch.
"The schedule looks great and it is very affordable for our international guests," says Johannes Stiefel, Owner of the three-star Alpha du Cap Guest House. "It is the first time that our guests will have a real alternative to taxis. Before now, transport was always a problem with inadequate services here. Taxis cost R170 to R200 one way, which is more expensive than car hire."
And accommodation providers who are not within walking distance of the stations are pleased about the system. Says Claire Dinnie, General Manager for the Sir David Boutique Guesthouse: "It will open the area up for tourism by improving access to the Table View and Bloubergstrand areas."
"This is great news," says Fraser Johnston, General Manager of the Dolphin Beach Hotel. "It is not only beneficial for tourists but also for our staff."
The second phase kicked in on May 14, which saw the full trunk service operating with the buses stopping at all stations along the trunk route. The interim inner-city feeder route - the Gardens-Civic Centre-Waterfront route - has also begun operating. It runs between the Civic Centre and Green Point, the Waterfront, the Loop and Long Street areas and Gardens. Tickets for the feeder routes cost R5 per trip but travel on the feeder routes is free when used in conjunction with a trunk route trip, which costs R10.
Over the weekend of May 21-22 all the Table View feeder services will also start operating. These will cover the areas of Big Bay, Table View, Parklands and Blaauwberg - also linking up to the trunk service.
"The phased route launch of the MyCiti bus service will greatly enhance Cape Town's reputation as a world-class tourism destination," comments Calvyn Gilfellan, CEO of Cape Town Routes Unlimited.
Clarissa Hughes
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