The Portfolio Committee on Transport wishes all those who suffered injuries during the train accident in Durban last night a speedy recovery.
The Chairperson of the Committee, Ms Dikeledi Magadzi, said train accidents should not be happening in the country. She said train accidents illustrated the need for improved signaling systems. “Upgrades on signaling equipment, skilled train drivers, and modern carriage fleet are collectively the solution to train accidents, and all these should receive maximum consideration,” said Ms Magadzi.
“Passenger Rail Agency of SA (PRASA) should put an emphasis on programs that are aimed at upgrading rail infrastructure. Given the centrality of the rail sector to South Africa’s economy, an efficient train service is non-negotiable,” she said.
Following yesterday’s train collision, more than 80 people were reported injured. There were no fatalities. Ms Magadzi said the investment in the rail sector was indicative of government’s commitment to improve the sector and its centrality to the development of South Africa.
“It is no longer enough to investigate the accidents, but importantly what is done to curb train collisions. Trains are the cheapest form of transport, and ferry millions of poor people to and from work,” she said.
She said safety ought to be the cornerstone of all efforts by PRASA.
For media enquiries or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact:
Mr. Sibongile Maputi
Mobile: 081 052 6060
Tel: 021 403 8041
Email: smaputi@parliament.gov.za
