Durban’s Go!Durban buses set to start running this year after over a decade of delays

After 16 years of delays and nearly R10 billion in spending, Durban’s long-awaited integrated public transport system could finally become a reality.

eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba has assured residents that the first phase of the Go!Durban transport system is expected to begin operating in December 2026.

The announcement marks a significant moment for a project that has faced years of delays despite billions of rand already being invested in infrastructure and systems across the city.

The first phase will focus on the C3 Corridor, linking Durban’s northern region with Pinetown in the west.

City to buy 22 buses

According to Xaba, the City has agreed to procure 22 buses for the first phase of the project.

Public transport operators will purchase additional feeder vehicles through the Vehicle Operating Company (VOC).

The City will then pay the VOC to operate the transport service.

Xaba said the project will also create employment opportunities, with 75% of employees expected to be sourced from people displaced by the implementation of the project.

“While the implementation of the programme has suffered delays, it has delivered tangible results in the form of infrastructure, systems and economic empowerment outcomes,” Xaba said.

“The priority now is to translate the investment already made into a functioning public transport service, beginning with the C3 corridor.”

A long wait for commuters

The Go!Durban project has been in development for more than a decade, with extensive infrastructure already constructed in parts of the city.

However, the system has repeatedly faced delays, leaving residents wondering when, or whether, the buses would eventually begin operating.

The planned December launch could represent the first major step towards finally getting Durban’s long-awaited integrated public transport system on the road.

But after years of delays, residents will understandably want to see buses carrying passengers before celebrating too early.

Nearly R10 billion has already been spent over the past 16 years.

The City now faces the challenge of proving that the massive investment can finally deliver what Durban residents have been waiting for: a functioning, reliable public transport system.