The Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA), on behalf of the City of Johannesburg’s Transport Department, has launched the highly anticipated Universal Design Access Plan (UDAP), a groundbreaking initiative aimed at making public transport across Johannesburg more inclusive, accessible, and equitable. This new plan, which will run until June 2026, promises to transform the way all Johannesburg residents, regardless of age, disability, or economic status, interact with the city’s transport systems.
This ambitious project will include a comprehensive series of audits and surveys across key public transport networks such as Rea Vaya Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), Metrobus, and Putco. The focus will be on assessing the accessibility of various transport elements, from bus stations and stops to vehicles, customer care services, signage, and digital platforms. The goal is to create an environment where public transport is easy to access for everyone, empowering individuals to move freely and independently throughout the city.
A Plan Rooted in Human Dignity
In his remarks, JDA CEO Themba Mathibe emphasized the centrality of human dignity and equal opportunity in the development of the UDAP. “The UDAP is about human dignity and equal opportunity. Accessible public transport empowers individuals—regardless of age, disability, or economic status—to move through the city with independence and ease,” Mathibe said. The UDAP aims to ensure that no one is left behind when it comes to mobility, and that every person can access and use Johannesburg’s public transport systems without barriers.
The plan’s comprehensive approach will examine every stage of the travel journey, from trip planning and fare systems to arrival at the final destination. It will include a detailed review of the transport infrastructure, including operations, customer experience, signage, and communication tools. This holistic assessment will ensure that improvements are made at every point in the public transport chain.
Addressing Barriers and Creating Actionable Solutions
One of the key outcomes of the UDAP will be the creation of a risk register that identifies existing barriers to universal access within the transport network and suggests actionable solutions. These barriers, which often stem from outdated infrastructure or poorly designed services, will be critically evaluated to ensure that Johannesburg’s public transport is truly accessible to all residents.
As part of the initiative, accessibility audits will be conducted at Rea Vaya stations (across Phases 1A, 1B, and 1C), as well as Metrobus and Putco facilities. These audits will assess the current state of accessibility across the public transport network, determining where changes need to be made to improve access for people with disabilities, the elderly, and those with limited mobility.
A Vision for an Inclusive City
This initiative underscores the JDA’s commitment to building a City of Johannesburg that works for all, recognising that universal design should not be viewed as a luxury or an afterthought but as a fundamental human right. The UDAP aligns with South Africa’s Constitution and national transport legislation, ensuring that Johannesburg’s public transport systems are not only compliant with legal standards but also responsive to the real needs of commuters on the ground.
The Path Ahead: A City Where Everyone Can Move Freely
By addressing these accessibility gaps, the Universal Design Access Plan will play a pivotal role in transforming Johannesburg into a truly inclusive city, where all residents can move about the city with dignity and confidence. The success of this initiative will depend on collaboration across all levels of government, private sector partners, and the public.
In conclusion, the UDAP represents a significant step forward in Johannesburg’s journey towards becoming a truly inclusive city. As the city works to ensure equal access to public transport, this project will create a stronger, more connected Johannesburg, one where every resident, regardless of their circumstances, can move freely and without barriers. This plan is a commitment to building a city where mobility is not a privilege, but a right for all.
