​Christopher Sello
On Monday evening, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi used his State of the Province Address to outline a dynamic vision of the province's transportation infrastructure. 
Emphasising the advent of a new era and economy characterised by technological advancements, Premier Lesufi heralded the dawn of a safer, more efficient Gauteng.
Delivered at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg, Lesufi, one of the most significant announcements of the SOPA was the decision to discontinue the controversial e-toll system, which garnered widespread support.
Premier Lesufi informed the house that during his discussions with the Minister of Finance and the Minister of Transport, it was agreed that formal proceedings to end e-tolls would commence on March 31st. 
The Premier also announced a strategic partnership with PRASA to reinstate rail services across Gauteng, aimed at reducing commuting expenses for residents. 
He underscored the progress of the Gautrain Rail Link, slated to extend from Sandton to Cosmo City, thus adding 148 km of rail network in Phase 1.
Additionally, the cabinet's approval for a high-speed rail link along the Johannesburg to Durban corridor was hailed as a milestone towards reducing the carbon footprint, enhancing business efficiency, and improving overall transportation safety.
Initiatives to establish a strategic link between Limpopo Province and Gauteng, aimed at reducing traffic congestion and promoting cost-effective transportation, were also highlighted.
"We welcome the cabinet approval for a high-speed rail link on the Johannesburg to Durban corridor. This will reduce our carbon footprint, reduce the cost of doing business, facilitate ease of movement of people, goods and reduce road fatalities on the N3 motorway," he said.
Ongoing projects, including developing a new railway line between Tshwane and East London led by Minister of Public Enterprises Pravin Gordhan, demonstrate the government's commitment to enhancing connectivity and accessibility.
Highlighting recent accomplishments, Premier Lesufi noted the completion and handover over of seven of the eighteen arterial roads including the K78 Allandale Road, as well as Hendrick Potgieter Road.
Lesufi said tarring dusty streets in townships is a priority, adding that the provincial government has identified 40 roads that need urgent attention in Sedibeng, an additional 40 roads in Ekurhuleni, West Rand, and 40 more across informal settlements in Gauteng. This totals 120 roads that will be upgraded in TISH areas.
"The future is here. A new phase of Gauteng's future is upon us. A safer and better Gauteng is emerging. With less talk and more work, the Gauteng Provincial Government is restructuring the road infrastructure to make way for a new way of traveling," he said.
The premier also touched on the issue of vehicle number plate duplication and the depletion of numerical number plate systems. The National Transport Department is drafting new legislation to implement a new number plate system for use across Gauteng and South Africa, which is effectively aimed at preventing criminal exploitation.
Premier Lesufi concluded by reflecting on how much Gauteng has changed the socio-economic landscape of the province and how it is continuing to do so. 
"Gauteng is heading towards a seamless, integrated public transport system; advanced railway and high-speed railway; smart mobility solutions, electric vehicles (EVs), and efficient road systems that connect people with economic nodes, tourism centers and other provinces," he added.