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KwaZulu Natal Department of Transport Indaba

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KZN TRANSPORT INDABA 2026 A GATEWAY FOR SMART MOBILITY

07 hours 37 minutes 56 seconds

Thematic Session 5: Digitisation of Transport Infrastructure and Public Transport Operations


Rational for discussion on this theme 

The rationale for digitisation is driven by the need to modernise transport systems in response to increasing complexity, demand pressures, and the need for improved operational efficiency. Traditional approaches to infrastructure management and public transport operations are often fragmented, reactive and data-limited, leading to inefficiencies, service disruptions and suboptimal investment decisions. Digital technologies, including intelligent transport systems, real-time data platforms and automation tools, provide an opportunity to transform how transport systems are planned, managed and experienced by users.

By leveraging digitisation, the Department can enhance visibility across the transport network, enable predictive maintenance of infrastructure assets, and improve the reliability and safety of public transport services. This also supports more informed, data-driven decision-making, allowing for better prioritisation of investments and more efficient use of limited resources. Furthermore, digitisation creates opportunities for innovation, private sector participation and the development of new service models that improve commuter experience and system performance. As such, it is a critical enabler of a modern, efficient and integrated transport system.

Objectives

  • Implement smart transport systems and digital platforms to improve system efficiency and user experience.
  • Enable real-time monitoring and management of transport networks and services.
  • Promote contactless, integrated ticketing and passenger information systems.
  • Enhance operational efficiency through automation and digital tools.
  • Strengthen cybersecurity and data protection in transport systems.

Questions to be answered

  • How can digitisation improve infrastructure planning and maintenance? 
  • What digital capabilities are needed to modernise public transport? 
  • How can integrated and interoperable transport data systems be enabled? 

Questions to consider​

Short-Term

  • What priority digital pilots (ITS, dashboards, asset monitoring) can be rolled out this year?
  • What existing systems can be integrated quickly?
  • What data gaps must be addressed immediately?

Medium-Term

  • How will digital systems scale to network-wide coverage?
  • What mobility command centre capability will be established?
  • How will public transport digitisation (ticketing, fleet management) be rolled out?

Long-Term

  • How will the province achieve a fully smart, integrated transport system?
  • What AI-driven predictive and autonomous capabilities will be deployed?
  • How will digital infrastructure support future mobility (EVs, MaaS)?