The Perceived Effectiveness of Planned Measures of Modal Shift in Tshwane, South Africa

Abstract

The City of Tshwane has been undergoing rapid urbanisation, resulting in increased daily mobility enabled by motorised individual transport, potentially causing adverse environmental and public health effects. In light of this, promoting a modal shift towards sustainable transport modes has become a key priority for reducing the negative externalities associated with using motorised individual transport in the City. This study aimed to examine the perceived effectiveness of planned measures of modal shift to encourage the adoption of sustainable transportation modes, including public transport, cycling and walking, in the City of Tshwane. The study sought to determine the extent to which such interventions can reduce dependence on cars and mitigate the environmental impact of transportation. A questionnaire was used to collect data from 418 residents, revealing that the most effective interventions perceived to promote public transport usage were "more reliable public transport, more bus routes, and cheaper fares". Personal safety and security were the main concerns for cycling, while improved walking infrastructure increases the likelihood of walking for short distance journeys. The study concludes that substantial investment is necessary to improve transport infrastructure and increase usage of alternative transport modes to motorised individual transport and suggests future research examining the feasibility of bicycle rental facilities around the city centre.