Buscor, Nelspruit’s Public Transport Provider, Listens to Commuters

As a indicator of its ongoing commitment to transparency and customer engagement, Buscor recently hosted an informative podcast session where commuter challenges were addressed, and received firsthand responses from the company operations. The gesture speaks volumes about Buscor’s investment in listening to its passengers and continuously reassessing commuter needs and demands.

Podcast Recap: Notable Highlights from Commuter Requests

The latest Segment of the Buscor podcast tackled several burning issues of commuters, from route extensions, passenger capacity, to how to request new bus services. The key points are as follows:

Route Changes & New Services:

Several commuter challenges   about the adjustment of timetables implemented by Buscor and made comments on what better suit them. Buscor clarified that stop locations depend on both passenger demand and operational feasibility. To ensure seamless and efficient service, the company is actively implementing these designated stops to reduce complaints about buses skipping passengers or failing to stop. This effort aims to streamline the system, helping drivers stay consistent and ensuring no passengers are missed at official stops. However, any locations not listed as designated bus stops will unfortunately not be recognized.

Passenger Safety & Comfort:

Buscor addressed the commuter challenges of  overcrowding by clarifying the difference between overloading and standing capacity. To ensure passenger safety, the company trains its drivers throughout the year. Additionally, Buscor hires drivers from local townships to help reduce unemployment and support the local economy.

How to Request a New Bus Service:

The operations manager outlined a step-by-step process for commuters to formally request additional buses at specific times and locations. During the podcast, Buscor reinforced its open-door policy and encouraged passengers to share feedback that can help improve transport services. Buscor understands that transport needs evolve, and travelers may require additional services at certain times or locations. The following is the way you can request a new bus:

Making a Request

Travelers can make a formal request through PR office on 013 754 6245/6

2. In-Person: Visit Buscor’s offices and fill out a request form.
3. Online: Use Buscor’s official website or social media platforms.

Information required for your request to be considered, provide the following:

1. Preferred drop-off/pick-up point
2. Preferred service time(s)
3. Reason for the request (e.g., demand is high, no current option is available)

What Makes a Good Request?

• A request is more likely to be approved if:
• It will serve a large number of commuters.
• The proposed time and place are feasible within Buscor operations.
• There is evidence of ongoing demand (e.g., through a petition—more details below).

The Petition Process: Demonstrating Demand for a New Route

Where a number of commuter challenges was a  need for new bus service, a petition will help demonstrate demand. Here is the process:

1. Gathering Signatures

There is a minimum number of signatures (as determined by Buscor) which must be collected to demonstrate sufficient interest.

Each applicant must provide:

• Full name
• Contact details (phone/email) to confirm
• Pickup/drop-off points preferred

2. Minimum Capacity Requirements:

To establish a new bus service, there must be enough passengers to fill at least one bus per trip (based on seating and standing capacity of 32 passengers). Buscor takes into account: Peak demand, Sustainability (will the route remain in demand in the long run?)

Standing vs. Overload: Passenger Capacity Explained

For comfort and safety, Buscor has strict policies regarding passenger capacity. Here’s the distinction between standing capacity and overloading:

Standing Capacity

Buses are designed to accommodate a specific number of seated and standing passengers. Standing passengers need to have enough room to be able to hold on to rails without discomfort or safety risk. The number of standing passengers allowed is 32 passengers, anything less is not recognized as overload. This capacity is both vehicle design- and transportation regulation determined.

Overloading

Overloading occurs when the number of passengers exceeds the approved standing capacity. It has implications for safety, e.g., longer braking distances and being unable to evacuate in case of emergencies. Buscor does not allow overloading and will postpone or add on additional buses to prevent this.

Ticket zones and Trips

Each day ticket allows four trips: two long-distance and two short transfers. The ticket clearly states the original location, destination, and the kilometers allocated per zone. If a passenger exceeds the designated kilometers, they must pay for the additional distance traveled.  A bus introduced combines common routes from one destination  with other locations on the way as one bus due to the demand of the passengers enroute. A bus cannot be introduced for minimum passengers at a specific location enroute to the main depot without a capacity of more than the minimum of the required bus .

Have Your Say—Be Heard in Nelspruit’s Transport Tomorrow

If you need a new bus service or would simply like to make some suggestions, don’t hesitate to contact us. Let’s work together to make Nelspruit’s transport system even better!