After a series of extremely distasteful events, I find myself in a situation where I need to make use of public transport once more. I've been a taxi commuter for the greater part of my life & therefore have absolutely no problem utilising this form of transport since I've been forced (by circumstances - partly within my control at that that-it's complicated) to suspend Ruby's most-times-capable engine.
The minute I stepped into the taxi this morning, I slowly; gradually recalled the little things I love and consequentially miss about public transport. So in order of importance here goes:
- Being able to look out the window (for any reason apart from checking my blind spot) & actually take in the sights.
- Not having to visit a petrol station & sigh in despair at the price of fuel. I now pay R5 each way.
- Encountering different people that unknowingly remind me that happiness is a choice.
- Exposing myself to absolutely no risk of picking up any kind of traffic fine (deserved or disputed)
- Worrying about getting people safely to our desired destination. Big relief.
- Passing places I would otherwise never come across because I need to walk.
- Stumbling upon bargains whether it be clothes or food, but bargains nonetheless.
- Nodding my head in disapproval as the taxi driver does something totally illegal (but quietly take a mental note if it works...)
- Having the door opened & closed for me.
- Listening to random music I would never willingly commit myself to listening to because I don't control the radio. It can be surprisingly enjoyable at times.
Public transport in SA has a long way to go to meeting 1st world requirements. The new BRT system will undoubtedly give us a shove up the ranking scale. It will open up the possibility of public transport usage to a wider range of people. Many will feel safer & will be more efficient warranting a reliability sticker. I hope the issues surrounding it are resolved soon so that we can fast improve our current system.
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