Episode Overview:

In this episode, global leaders from across three continents come together to discuss how cities and transport authorities are adapting to the increasing demands on mobility and funding challenges, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. The panelists share insights into innovative solutions for transport funding, sustainability, and the role of public transport in economic resilience. They also explore the impacts of inflation, free fare public transport, and the importance of long-term planning in the rapidly evolving mobility landscape.

Host: Dr. Kaan Yildizgöz

Panelists:

• Dr. Tshepo Kgobe, CEO of Gautrain Management Agency, South Africa
• Dr. Ozgur Soy, CEO of Metro Istanbul and Group Coordinator for municipal transport operators, Turkey
• Lukasz Franek, Director of the Transport Authority, City of Krakow, Poland

Key Topics Discussed:

Gauteng’s Rapid Growth and Mobility Funding

Dr. Tshepo Kgobe explains how Gauteng, South Africa’s economic hub, faces rapid population growth and rising congestion. He outlines innovative strategies for financing public transport projects, including the expansion of railway networks and high-speed lines. He also discusses the importance of planning for long-term sustainability, including transitioning to electric and hydrogen-powered buses.

Krakow’s Post-COVID Transport Challenges

Lukasz Franek shares how the COVID-19 pandemic drastically affected Krakow’s public transport system, reducing passenger numbers and increasing operational costs due to inflation. He highlights Krakow’s focus on innovation, such as demand-responsive transport (DRT) systems and the integration of new technologies, to improve efficiency and attract more riders.

Istanbul’s Transport Innovations Amidst Economic Pressures

Dr. Ozgur Soy discusses how Metro Istanbul is managing the challenges of high inflation and increasing demand for public transport. With a population of over 16 million, Istanbul has invested heavily in expanding its metro system, with 17 lines under construction. Dr. Soy also highlights the city’s efforts to increase gender diversity in the workforce and their innovative funding solutions, including selling station naming rights and leveraging commercial opportunities within the metro system.

The Debate on Free Fare Public Transport

The panel engages in a lively discussion on the concept of free fare public transport. While acknowledging the appeal of free transport, the panelists caution against the financial sustainability of such models, noting that nothing is truly free and that governments must find ways to cover the costs without jeopardising long-term investment in public transport infrastructure.

Memorable Quotes:

• "Mobility drives economic development. Without a proper transport system, cities die." – Dr. Tshepo Kgobe, Gautrain Management Agency
• "Inflation is one of our biggest challenges, but we’ve managed to expand our metro system and increase ridership despite the economic pressures." – Dr. Ozgur Soy, Metro Istanbul
• "The future of public transport depends on innovation, but we must also ensure it remains attractive to the next generation." – Lukasz Franek, Krakow Transport Authority

Funding and Future Strategies:

• Gautrain’s Vision for Sustainable Growth: Dr. Kgobe outlines the agency’s long-term transition plan, which includes battery-electric and hydrogen-powered buses, and a roadmap for moving from diesel to green energy.
• Istanbul’s Creative Financing: Dr. Soy discusses Istanbul’s innovative funding strategies, such as selling naming rights to metro stations and expanding commercial spaces within the metro network.
• Public-Private Partnerships (PPP): Lukasz Franek highlights Krakow’s use of PPPs to fund new tramway projects, emphasising the need for diversified funding models to keep pace with rising costs.

Learn More About Our Speakers:

• Dr. Tshepo Kgobe – CEO of Gautrain Management Agency, leading transport development in South Africa’s Gauteng province.
• Dr. Ozgur Soy – CEO of Metro Istanbul, driving the expansion of Istanbul’s metro system amidst economic challenges.
• Lukasz Franek – Director of the Transport Authority in Krakow, focused on sustainable and innovative transport solutions in Poland.

Connect with Us:

• Website: https://mobilityredefined.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mobility-redefined/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MobilityRedefined

Mobility Redefined is brought to you by Modaxo: https://modaxo.com/

• Host: Dr. Kaan Yildizgoz
• Producer: Mike Cartmel
• Executive Producer: Darren Turpin

Special thanks to:

• Brand design: Tina Olagundoye
• Digital Media: Belén Iturrioz Campo

If you have a question or comment, email us at [email protected]

00:36 Introduction and Overview of Mobility Challenges

01:14 Meet the Speakers: Global Perspectives on Transport

02:34 Funding and Innovation in Gauteng's Transport System

06:18 Post-COVID Transport Challenges in Krakow

09:50 Istanbul's Transport Innovations Amidst Economic Challenges

14:42 Sustainable Transport Solutions in South Africa

26:26 Debating Free Public Transport and Funding Models

35:16 Conclusions: The Future of Public Transport

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it, or from any action or decision taken in response to it.