Polokwane to Pretoria in 90 minutes? Bullet train project moves ahead

POLOKWANE – Plans for a high-speed bullet train connecting Gauteng and Limpopo are steadily gaining traction as both provincial governments confirm progress in the pre-construction phase of the ambitious Limpopo-Gauteng Speed Train Project.

First introduced in 2023, the project aims to develop a 500km high-speed rail line linking Pretoria to Polokwane, with the potential to extend as far as Musina, transforming long-distance travel in South Africa’s northern corridor.

Read more: Feasibility study for Gauteng-Limpopo speed train begins

In a joint statement, the Limpopo and Gauteng governments stated that feasibility studies and environmental impact assessments are currently underway and are expected to be concluded by mid-2025.

These evaluations are critical to ensuring compliance with safety, economic, and environmental standards before construction can commence.

One of the primary concerns under investigation is the acquisition of land.

The proposed railway must pass through privately owned properties and communities, and negotiations with landowners will play a pivotal role in determining the project’s pace and success.

If these early stages proceed as planned, construction could begin in late 2026, with the first phase – between Pretoria and Polokwane – potentially operational by 2030.

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Currently, the intended route’s distance of five hours takes five to six hours by car.

The bullet train, travelling at high speeds, could reduce this travel time to approximately 90 minutes, dramatically improving mobility for residents, tourists and business travellers alike.

The project is designed in two phases:

Phase 1: High-speed rail from Pretoria to Polokwane.

Phase 2: Expansion beyond Polokwane to key stops, including Hammanskraal, Bela-Bela, Mokopane, Louis Trichardt and Musina.