It has been a long time coming with more than a decade having passed since the revolutionary Gautrain project was first announced.
It has not been an easy road sink holes, construction challenges and many hours of hard work but the mammoth project is now up and running just in time for the start of the 2010 FIFA World Cup
The much anticipated Gautrain was launched in style at the weekend and all sceptics have been silenced. The first phase of the project, will start ferrying passengers from tomorrow morning, it links Sandton, Marlboro, Rhodesfield and OR Tambo International Airport.
National Justice Minister Jeff Radebe said the completion of the first phase of the Gautrain ensured that those who doubted and did not believe the project would get off the ground would now turn their attention elsewhere.
The high speed train will reduce the gridlock on the country's roads as well as contribute to nation building said Radebe.
Radebe said a good quality transport system cuts away individualism and would also boost tourism in the country and the project is proof that cooperation between the three spheres of government can bear fruit.
Gauteng Premier Nomvula Mokonyane said the Gautrain is the latest of a number of initiatives aimed at revolutionising the public transport system after the Rea Vaya Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, already operational in Johannesburg.
It is mostly targeting car owners to use public transport as part of the ongoing efforts to reduce congestion on roads by encouraging motorists to use public transport.
Mokonyane said: "This is going to be an asset for the people of South Africa for generations to come".
She said this project has been pivotal in building socio economic opportunities for small medium micro enterprises (SMME).
Gautrain, she said contributes to job creation as well the creation of new opportunities for small business.
Gauteng MEC for roads and transport Bheki Nkosi said the system will change the perception of public transport adding that it was the dawn of a new legacy in public transport.
"It is the pride of the nation and the continent," said Nkosi.
Those who have been eager to board the Gautrain need not wait any longer tickets will be available to ordinary members of the public from tomorrow onwards.
Issued by: Office of the Premier, Gauteng Provincial Government
7 June 2010
Source: Gauteng Provincial Government (http://www.gautengonline.gov.za/)
