Molepolole bus rank ready for optimal use
Pini Bothoko | Tuesday August 1, 2023 06:00
In a parliamentary response to Molepolole North Member of Parliament (MP), Oabile Regoeng, Local Government Minister Kgotla Autlwetse confirmed that the rank was fully prepared and ready for optimal utilisation. Regoeng had asked during parliamentary session for an update on plans and strategies to enhance the use of the rank.
Autlwetse admitted that the bus rank has not been put to optimal use since its completion in 2017 due to bus and taxi operators’ non-compliance at the terminal.
“I can assure the members of this House that a stakeholder consultation was conducted regarding the potential location for the new bus rank. Initially, the preferred location was the old site near the existing shops in Borakalalo, which was informally used by buses and taxis as a bus rank,” he said. Autlwetse explained that the proposed project could not be carried out at the designated site in Molepolole.
The minister justified the decision to choose the bus rank as an alternative location based on its size and availability. He argued the spacious area can accommodate all proposed developments in the area.
“I am aware that the bus rank facility has not been fully utilised since its completion. I kindly request that the honourable member and this House allow me time to conduct a study to develop strategies for maximising the use of the bus rank. As mentioned earlier, the study will produce a detailed plan for the effective utilisation of the bus rank,” he stated. Autlwetse added that the ministry will consider taking immediate actions, which include consulting with the Department of Road, Transport and Safety and law enforcement agencies, to involve relevant stakeholders.
He stated that the consultation aims to ensure that bus and mini-bus operators comply with the law by picking up and dropping off passengers only at designated bus ranks, rather than at various points along the road.
“Owing to the fact that it is experiencing low usage, only minor maintenance such as plumbing work is done. When necessary it is done in-house by council crew,” Autwetse said. He stated that they are aware of the minor repairs that need to be done at the market stalls and they plan to complete them during the 2023-2024 financial year.