MTN has formed a public-private partnership with the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) to address the issue of load shedding on South Africa's roads.
A Service Level Agreement between the two parties will see MTN SA providing backup power to all traffic lights in Soweto that are located near MTN base stations. During load shedding, the base stations will draw from their backup power systems to provide energy to the traffic lights, significantly alleviating delays and frustrations experienced by Soweto residents and commuters.
This will be particularly helpful at key “traffic corridors” that lead towards highways. By providing reliable AC power backup to traffic lights at intersections near its network stations, MTN is taking a proactive step towards enhancing traffic management in the region.
“The JRA must be commended for their commitment in ensuring swift progress in implementing this project. This is an excellent example of what can be achieved when the private and public sectors work together to positively impact the lives of citizens,” says MTN South Africa’s Chief Executive Officer, Charles Molapisi.
"By partnering with business, we are taking proactive steps to alleviate the impact load shedding has on commuters, due to its impact on our traffic lights. To ensure efficient traffic flow at peak times, we need smooth-flowing traffic corridors that lead traffic onto highways, keeping people moving to their destinations with ease and efficiency. By ensuring a stable power supply to traffic lights, we aim to enhance road safety, minimise congestion, and create a more seamless driving and transportation experience for all road users,” said Zweli Nyati, Acting CEO for the JRA.
“We’re excited about the future of this project and aim to expand further afield to partner with municipalities across the country to create corridors of free-flowing traffic in loadshedding, by using existing base stations to power traffic lights where we can”, added Molapisi.
