IN an effort to alleviate traffic congestion on the roads, the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) will be running a special charter train for the Comrades Marathon later this month.

In a statement on Tuesday, the agency said it has revitalised its long-distance services through a special charter train.

“Given the high demand for accommodation and traffic volumes surrounding the Comrades Marathon event in KwaZulu-Natal (Durban), Shosholoza Meyl will be providing the public with an alternative, safe and affordable mode of long-distance travel that will also help with accommodation and alleviate traffic congestion on our roads,” PRASA said.

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The Shosholoza Meyl services will be running a special charter train for the Comrades Marathon from August 26 to August 29 by offering customers two packages, with one targeted at customers wanting something extra and the other for the budgeted traveller.

“The charter service is also extended to Comrades Marathon fans and supporters, participants who want to bring their families along, and passengers who would like to travel to Durban but who are not attending the Comrades Marathon,” PRASA said.

Special focus will be given to improved customer experience, customer and employee health and safety, as well as safe, affordable and reliable travel.

PRASA added that there will be limited accommodation available, and customers are advised to make a booking and finalise their travel arrangements well in advance by calling PRASA’s sales agents.

Main Line Passenger Services introducing a service to KZN from JHB. If you are running the Comrades Marathon and looking for travel and accomodation that suits your budget, try getting there by rail. See poster for details. #Hambanathi#ComradesMarathon2022 pic.twitter.com/VT2AO4O3gp

— PRASA Group (@PRASA_Group) July 29, 2022

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