Byline: Captain SA

19 April 2024

Today, as we celebrate 30 years of democracy in our beloved nation, we reflect on our progress and the impact of our efforts. As we restore passenger rail services, I want to highlight the transformative power of these services and their positive impact on our communities.

#PublicTransport

Three decades ago, our people and the governing party ushered in an era of freedom, equality, and opportunity. The journey since then has been one of transformation, touching the lives of every South African, with passenger rail being central to this transformative journey.

Ladies and gentlemen, as we celebrate 30 years of our democracy, we must acknowledge the deterioration of commuter rail services and the devastating effects of criminal syndicates on our rail network. Millions suffered from unreliable commuter services, often traveling on trains that were not fit for purpose. These issues forced people to turn to more costly modes of transport, creating hardship for many, including single mothers and elderly citizens.

#30YearsOfDemocracy

But the picture is changing. The national government is making significant strides in restoring reliable, safe, modern, and affordable passenger rail services. PRASA has restored 31 of the 40 lines nationally and refurbished over 263 of the 463 vandalized stations. In Gauteng alone, six additional lines were recovered in the 2023/24 financial year, connecting key municipalities and providing a much-needed service to our citizens.

Since the recovery of the passenger rail services in the 2020/2021 financial year, over 70 million passenger trips have been made, a significant increase from the 7.4 million trips in the 2020/21 financial year. The Nancefield line alone now facilitates over 1,000 passenger trips per day, illustrating the growing demand for rail transport.

#PassengerRailRevival

The reopening of the Nancefield to Johannesburg railway line demonstrates the transformative power of commuter rail services. Residents from Klipspruit, Mlamlakunzi, Sebokeng, and Orange Farm can now travel to industrial parks in Braamfontein and Germiston affordably. For soccer fans, travel to stadiums via the Orlando station is now convenient and efficient.

#TransformingLives

During my 45-minute journey from Nancefield to Johannesburg this morning, I heard numerous stories of lives changed for the better. These personal accounts reflect the broader impact of our efforts on the community. People appreciate the new high-tech trains, Isitimela Sabantu, with their enhanced security features, automated doors, voice commands, and air-conditioning systems. Most importantly, the savings on travel costs are putting more money back into people’s pockets, restoring dignity and improving quality of life.

#PRASAProgress

As we celebrate 30 years of democracy, these advancements in passenger rail have had a profound impact on the social and economic well-being of our communities. By providing affordable and efficient transportation, we have empowered marginalized groups, improved access to opportunities, and fostered greater social and economic inclusion.

#EconomicGrowth

Our work continues to improve public transport. Soon, residents from Katlehong, Springs, Midway, Roodepoort, and Residentia will also benefit from these services. Our goal is to increase train frequency and reduce waiting times, with the national signaling project well underway.

#JobCreation

Through substantial investments in passenger rail capital projects, around R30 billion over the last two years, and the creation of over 5,000 jobs nationally, we are driving economic growth and improving lives. The reopening of the Nancefield line alone created 312 jobs and engaged 16 local SMMEs, boosting the local economy.

#AffordableTransport

The revival of train services has also revitalized the secondary economy, providing opportunities for traders at our stations. Our democracy is about more than the right to vote; it’s about tangible improvements in the lives of ordinary people.

In conclusion, we remain committed to enhancing the quality, accessibility, and sustainability of our public transportation network. Together, we will continue to build a more connected, equitable, and prosperous nation, where the power of passenger rail transforms lives.

Signaling Ceremony of the Southern Line and Launch of Train Set 200

23 April 2024

Today, we celebrate more milestones in the passenger rail sector. Following the successful reopening of the Nancefield to Johannesburg line, we continue to see progress in revitalizing public transport.

In just three decades of democracy, we have worked to transform public transport, integrating various modes to meet the needs of our people. Despite challenges, we have made significant strides in reversing the decline in passenger rail services.

#SustainableTransport

PRASA’s turnaround plan includes a rolling-stock fleet renewal program, station modernization, and signaling upgrades. To date, PRASA has partially recovered 31 lines, with significant progress on the Southern Line, where all 39 stations are now operational, reducing journey times and increasing train frequency.

The re-signaling project is enhancing efficiency and safety, with modern technology improving service frequency and reliability. This progress demonstrates our commitment to providing a dependable commuter rail service.

The Rolling Stock Fleet Renewal Programme, with 214 X’trapolis Mega Trains manufactured in Dunnottar, contributes to job creation and skills development. This initiative supports our goal of industrialization and environmental sustainability, reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable transportation.

PRASA’s property development projects, such as the Cape Town station revitalization, are transforming stations into vibrant hubs, offering residential and commercial opportunities. These developments demonstrate how we are leveraging our infrastructure to create economic value and improve lives.

As we celebrate our progress in the passenger rail sector, we reaffirm our commitment to building a future where rail remains a cornerstone of our transportation infrastructure. Together, let us invest in our communities, empower our citizens, and build a nation we can all be proud of.

#CommunityEmpowerment

Contact: +27 12 748 7000

info@prasa.com