Durban:The eThekwini Municipality has formalized an agreement with representatives from the minibus taxi and bus industries, setting the stage for the launch of the GO!Durban Corridor 3 (C3) in December 2026.
According to South African Government News Agency, the agreement provides a framework for integrating affected public transport operators into the new system, which will connect commuters traveling between Bridge City in KwaMashu and Pinetown.
The agreement signing occurred at the Durban Exhibition Centre during the City's Transport Month programme, themed “Building the Network Together.” Additionally, the municipality unveiled the new GO!Durban bus designated for the route. C3 will be the inaugural corridor of eThekwini's Integrated Public Transport Network (GO!Durban) to become operational, aiming to enhance access to employment, education, healthcare, and other essential services.
This development follows the council's approval of the GO!Durban Business and Operational Plans on 1 September 2026, outlining the roadmap for the network's service implementation. City Manager Musa Mbhele emphasized the municipality's commitment to providing safe, reliable, and affordable public transport, highlighting the agreement as a step forward in collaboration between the government and public transport industries.
The agreement outlines how bus and minibus taxi operators affected by the corridor will participate in the new system, with services delivered through formal Vehicle Operating Companies contracted to the City. Mathula Mkhize, Chairperson of the eThekwini Metro Taxi Council, hailed the signing as a significant achievement for the public transport sector, citing progress through ongoing engagement and partnership between the municipality and industry stakeholders.
As part of the programme, delegates visited Westrich Station at Midway Crossing to observe the fare collection system, including the tap-in fare gates, and viewed feeder services and the customer registration process involving 'I AM GO!' badges. Before commencing passenger services, the municipality and its partners will finalize operating contracts and complete necessary testing and commissioning of infrastructure, vehicles, and systems.
C3 is part of Phase 1 of the GO!Durban network, to be followed by corridors C1, C9, C2, and the Inner City Distribution System.