After five weeks without trains on the North Coast, the service is expected to begin operating again on Monday.

The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) suspended services after angry commuters burnt down a ticket office, trains and workers vehicles in Umlazi, because trains were running late.

Commuters who relied on the trains have since been forced to use taxis, at more than triple the cost.

For example, a return train ticket to Durban costs R23 while a single taxi trip costs R45 and two ways, R90.

KZN transport, community safety and liaison MEC Mxolisi Kauda announced today that commuters would be able to return to their regular train stations next week.

The MEC received a briefing this morning from the management of both rail parastatals – PRASA and Transnet – which confirmed that the repairs on the railway line which resulted in the suspensions of trains, will be completed by tomorrow (Friday).

Also read: Costs rocket as trains on the North Coast halted

“PRASA decided to suspend trains on the line because it was not safe for commuters and employees due to cable theft and aging infrastructure, which affected time traveled by commuters.

“This threatened the lives of train drivers as trains were not arriving on time, leaving commuters upset,” said Kaunda.

The MEC commended PRASA and Transnet for speeding up repairs.

He urged members of the community to work with PRASA and the police to apprehend criminals who continuously vandalise the infrastructure.

Kaunda also thanked train commuters for being patient while PRASA and Transnet was fixing the line.

“PRASA took this drastic step to suspend trains to ensure that commuters are safe and improve travel times,” said Kaunda.

Do you want to receive news alerts via WhatsApp? Send us a WhatsApp message (not an sms) with your name and surname to 061 718 4438.

Please read our WhatsApp broadcast list disclaimer.
Join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram