Durban rail set for R11bn overhaul as PRASA targets trains every 3 to 5 minutes
PRASA is investing R11bn in signalling and telecommunications infrastructure in KwaZulu-Natal, with a further R2bn earmarked for the Umlazi Corridor. The projects are intended to improve rail safety, reliability and service frequency.
The City of Durban is set to undergo a major upgrade to its rail network, with an investment of R11 billion by the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA). The overhaul will focus on enhancing the signalling and telecommunications infrastructure across various rail corridors. In addition to this, a further R2 billion will be allocated to rehabilitate the Umlazi Corridor, which is the busiest in KwaZulu-Natal.
These projects are anticipated to significantly enhance the safety, reliability, and frequency of train services, with trains potentially running at intervals of three to five minutes. eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba highlighted the potential impact of this investment, stating that it could alleviate road congestion and encourage more people to use the rail as a dependable and cost-effective mode of transportation.
Xaba explained that a dependable train service is not only safer but also allows individuals to reside a considerable distance from the city center, eliminating the need for informal settlements in urban areas. This improved service could also potentially boost annual rail passenger numbers from the current 1.8 million to over 10 million, according to KwaZulu-Natal PRASA Regional Manager Thami Sithole.
The automated signalling system implemented under the new programme is expected to enable PRASA to double the number of trains operating on the network. Sithole emphasized that the project enhances the agency's ability to manage trains more efficiently, potentially doubling the current fleet of 10 trains.
Written by urgent.news from IOL's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
