Cape Town – The Passenger Rail Service Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has announced the resumption of long-distance mainline passenger services, specifically on the Johannesburg to Durban and Cape Town routes through the Shosholoza Meyl.
“The services, both suspended in 2021 due to operational and network infrastructure challenges, are set to resume just in time for the December holiday period,” EWN quoted PRASA spokesperson Andiswa Makanda as saying.
PRASA said it aims to assist cash-strapped commuters dealing with high long-distance travel costs.
📣UPDATE TRAIN SCHADULE FOR DURBAN.
As you plan your December/January travel please note the changes on the departure times.
See flyer below:👇🏼 pic.twitter.com/aXnZ8OkNnP— Main Line Passenger Services (@ServicesMain) November 30, 2023
Train fares for the Joburg to Cape Town route start from R430, while fares for the Joburg to Durban route start from R170.
Prasa reassured potential travellers that it has achieved notable progress in the reconstruction of rail infrastructure, successfully restoring 27 commuter rail lines, The Citizen reported.
From 6 December 2023, Shosholoza Meyl will resume the Joburg to Durban & Cape Town long-distance train services. The services were suspended in 2021 due to operational & network infrastructure challenges. Jozi to Cape Town: R430 Economy Class (Sitter) & R690 (Sleeper). Jozi to… pic.twitter.com/JHXosmIksi
— Clayson Monyela (@ClaysonMonyela) December 2, 2023
“The resumption of the Johannesburg to Durban and Cape Town services marks another milestone in the revival of long-distance passenger rail services,” the company said.
Follow African Insider on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
Picture: X/@MinceLaSalle
For more African news, visit Africaninsider.com
Compiled by Betha Madhomu
