Durban's transportation landscape in 2024 is dominated by car usage, with a significant 87.5% of commuters relying on personal vehicles.
Despite the heavy reliance on cars, there is a notable percentage of the population that walks, reflecting a diverse range of commuting preferences.
The average commute involves 22.63 minutes of driving and a total commute time of 25.5 minutes over a distance of 17.15 km.
Traffic tends to increase during the summer months as tourists flock to Durban's beaches.
Winter months see a slight decrease in traffic as local residents travel less frequently.
High congestion during peak hours leads to increased travel times for car commuters.
Limited public transport options make it challenging for non-car owners to commute efficiently.
Traveling outside of peak hours, particularly mid-morning or early afternoon, can significantly reduce commute times.
Weekends generally offer smoother traffic flow compared to weekdays.
Major events such as the Durban July horse race and international conferences can cause significant traffic disruptions.
Planning ahead and using public transport during events can help avoid congestion.
Durban is investing in expanding its public transport network to reduce car dependency.
Initiatives to promote cycling and walking are being introduced to lower the city's carbon footprint.
Ride-sharing services are becoming increasingly popular, offering a flexible alternative to car ownership.
These services help reduce the number of vehicles on the road, potentially easing congestion.