PRASA counts down the return of Soweto train services
This as the railway company intends to open all rail lines by the end of this financial year.
The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) Naledi Depot in Soweto receives brand new Electrical Multiple Unit (EMU) trains ahead of its expected reopening mid-November.
ALSO READ: UPDATE: The PRASA Security died on his way to hospital
This follows last week’s announcement by the company indicating the introduction of the blue trains to run in Gauteng.
This comes as PRASA in Soweto is concluding final preparations to welcome its commuters back as it resumes its services operations for the Johannesburg to Naledi Corridor after much delays.
Repairs to the dilapidated infrastructure commenced after the company suspended its operations in May and began rebuilding a new rail line system, which include a brand new rail track, fixing of cables, reinstallation of electricity, signalling and telecommunications systems and recently completed power station (Sub-stations).
The repairs which were initially set to conclude in September were delayed on several occasions while most of the workers returned to their posts.
The resumption follows the opening of the Pretoria corridor in October, while the Lenasia corridor is also expected to reopen.
This as the railway company intends to open all rail lines by the end of this financial year.
ALSO READ: Breaking News: PRASA security guard fighting for his life following mob justice in Klipspruit
The Something Blue trains include new features such as an on-board driver-commuter communication system, air condition, and emergency communication for disabled passengers.
According to PRASA Strategy GM, Anna – Marie Lubbe who was speaking at the Transport Forum event last month, the company will be focusing on strengthening safety and security systems.
She further highlighted that as part of its planned interventions to address the vulnerability of its system to theft and vandalism, the company was looking at ensuring that all depots and rail corridors are walled off.
“This is to protect commuters and our fare revenue. This will contribute to enabling us to run a consistent service with people who pay for the service they are using,” she said.
The railway service in Soweto restarted operations following the lockdown in 2021 however this was on a limited service with only one train running in the morning and afternoon due to the massive destruction to most of its stations.
The extent of damages to the company infrastructure was as a result of on-going theft and vandalism during the Covid-19 hard lockdown which has forced PRASA to operate under strenuous conditions.
Follow Us Here:
Catch the latest news by visiting our other platforms:
