Transport Minister S?bu Ndebele has congratulated the City of Johannesburg for successfully launching the Bus Rapid Transit system despite threats from the taxi industry.

,p> He said although officials have faced several challenges in the build up to the launch they have worked hard to ensure that Gauteng residents received the best public transport possible.

Residents have been given the opportunity to experience the new bus fleet by taking free rides on Sunday.

A number of high ranking officials who made an appearance including Transport Minister S'bu Ndebele were also taken around the city for a ride.

However, all the Rea Vaya busses had to be escorted by police vans while a chopper circled the city centre as a precautionary measure.

Officers were also stationed along the bus routes.

Some of the stations were open to allow commuters to start buying tickets.

Meanwhile, taxi operators are yet to decide whether they will embark on a national protest against the BRT on Tuesday.