INTERNATIONAL: ITF SAFE & SUSTAINABLE RAIL CAMAPIGN

The International Transport Federation (ITF) has launched a global campaign to promote the benefits of the rail industry and rail jobs.

The RTBU’s representative on the ITF Asia Pacific Railway Section Steering Committee, Alex Claassens, said safe and sustainable public transport can help power the world out of the economic, climate and social crises we face today.

“Safe and sustainable public transport is a new economic and social model that redefines the role of passengers, workers, employers, the state and the environment,” Alex said.

“Public investment in trains, trams and buses can kickstart the post- COVID recovery of national economies. In India for example, every $1 invested in rail creates $5 of GDP in the rest of the economy.

“Public transport reduces carbon emissions. Per passenger kilometre, heavy rail emits 75 per cent less than cars, and light rail emits 57 per cent less.

“Public transport also fuels economic and social equality through access to employment, skilled jobs and higher wages.

“On average, every one job created in rail and public transport creates another job in manufacturing, food, trade or other sectors.

“And public transport also provides citizens with the mobility needed to access jobs and livelihoods.”

Alex said the Safe and Sustainable Rail campaign has four key demands:

SAFE

Properly staffed and decent jobs for railway workers – to ensure optimum safety and guarantee access for all.

SUSTAINABLE

Millions of good, green jobs in rail giving future generations a better world.

SOCIAL JUSTICE

Workers have a voice on use of new technology, and supply chains are free from abuse.

PUBLICLY-OWNED

Railways that operate for good, not profit, and are safely in public hands. Privatisation puts passengers, workers, and our communities at risk.

For more information about the Safe and Sustainable Rail campaign go to: www.itfglobal.org