Neftaly: Ensuring Safe Access to Roads and Transport in Informal Settlements

1. Introduction

Informal settlements are often characterized by poor road infrastructure, limited public transport options, and unsafe walking conditions. These issues contribute to isolation, limited access to essential services, road accidents, and barriers to economic opportunities. Neftaly is committed to promoting the development of inclusive, safe, and accessible transport and road networks within informal settlements to improve mobility, safety, and quality of life.

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2. Purpose

This framework outlines Neftaly’s approach to ensuring that residents of informal settlements can safely access roads and transport services. It focuses on reducing risks, improving infrastructure, and promoting inclusive planning practices.

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3. Objectives

• To improve safe and inclusive access to roads and transport for all residents, including women, children, people with disabilities, and the elderly.
• To enhance connectivity between informal settlements and essential services such as schools, clinics, markets, and employment areas.
• To reduce accidents, crime, and environmental hazards related to unsafe roads and transport conditions.
• To promote community participation in the planning and upgrading of local transport systems.

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4. Key Safety Challenges in Informal Settlements

• Narrow and unplanned pathways that limit access for emergency vehicles and public transport.
• Lack of pedestrian infrastructure (sidewalks, crossings, lighting).
• Unsafe public transport stops or pick-up points, often unregulated and in high-risk zones.
• Flood-prone or unpaved roads that become impassable during bad weather.
• Inadequate signage or traffic calming measures leading to pedestrian accidents.
• Informal transport systems (minibus taxis, motorcycle taxis) operating without safety oversight.

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5. Neftaly Road and Transport Safety Standards

5.1. Road Access and Layout

• Ensure minimum 3-meter-wide pathways for emergency and service vehicles.
• Prioritize safe, walkable access routes for children, elderly people, and persons with disabilities.
• Promote grid-style or cluster planning in new or upgrading projects to allow structured road access.

5.2. Pedestrian Safety

• Install paved footpaths, speed bumps, and pedestrian crossings in high-traffic areas.
• Improve street lighting in all major pathways and transport nodes.
• Designate safe zones for children near schools and playgrounds, with warning signs and speed limits.

5.3. Transport Infrastructure

• Establish safe and formalized public transport stops with shelters, signage, and lighting.
• Work with local authorities to improve connectivity between informal settlements and formal transport hubs (e.g., bus stations, taxi ranks).
• Support development of non-motorized transport systems (e.g., bicycle lanes) where applicable.

5.4. Environmental Safety

• Roads and pathways must include proper drainage to prevent waterlogging and erosion.
• Use eco-friendly materials and construction methods to reduce environmental impact.
• Regular waste clearance from roads must be enforced to prevent blockages and health risks.

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6. Community Involvement and Ownership

• Create Community Road and Transport Committees (CRTCs) to monitor road safety issues and report hazards.
• Train local residents in basic road maintenance and traffic safety awareness.
• Encourage inclusive participation of women, youth, and persons with disabilities in planning and decision-making.

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7. Partnerships and Stakeholder Engagement

• Collaborate with:
  • Local municipalities to formalize roads and provide basic transport infrastructure.
  • Transport associations to promote safety among informal transport operators.
  • Urban planners and engineers to create sustainable and affordable infrastructure solutions.
• Encourage public-private partnerships (PPPs) for road improvements and transport services.

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8. Emergency and Disaster Preparedness

• Ensure clear emergency vehicle access throughout the settlement.
• Identify and mark emergency evacuation routes that are accessible during floods or fires.
• Develop community-based emergency response plans that include transport coordination.

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9. Monitoring, Compliance, and Evaluation

• Conduct bi-annual road and transport safety assessments in each settlement.
• Use community feedback tools (surveys, workshops) to monitor impact and identify issues.
• Maintain a risk register for roads and transport hazards and track improvements over time.

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10. Legal and Policy Alignment

This framework aligns with:

• National Road Traffic Act and municipal by-laws regarding road safety and transport regulation.
• United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 11): Sustainable cities and communities.
• Local government Integrated Development Plans (IDPs) for urban infrastructure and transport.

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11. Conclusion

Safe access to roads and transport is not a luxury—it is a right that enables health, education, economic inclusion, and human dignity. Neftaly is dedicated to working with communities and partners to ensure that residents of informal settlements are no longer left behind when it comes to safe, reliable, and dignified transport solutions.