transformation" of the Gauteng transport system Premier
4 February 2009
If anyone still had any doubts about the progress of the rapid rail link
Gautrain project, then the sight of the first train of the much talked about
will go a long way in quashing those. And who better to know this than the man
who, as Gauteng MEC for Transport, Roads and Works back in 1996, said "the
Gautrain was no more than a dream and a few rough ideas on sheets of
paper".
Now Premier of Gauteng, Paul Mashatile was yesterday on hand to witness that
"rough idea" turn into a shiny, impressive product. "Today, we are witnessing
the beginning of the radical transformation of the public transport system in
our province, as the road became long and winding, those we had entrusted with
the responsibility of making this dream a reality persevered," said
Mashatile.
Mashatile joined about 150 invited guests gathered at the Gautrain depot in
Midrand to welcome the first completed train set to its operational home.
Guests experienced a glimpse of Gautrain's world class features during a quick
and fast ride on the three kilometre test track at the depot in Midrand.
Speaking during the Gautrain home coming ceremony on Tuesday, Mashatile said
"the project will bring a new legacy in public transport, the first of its kind
in Africa".
"This occasion represents yet another milestone in our ongoing journey to
build Gauteng as a Globally Competitive City Region, supported by a world
class, safe, efficient and integrated public transportation system," said
Mashatile.
The Premier of South Africa's economic hub further told the gathering the
benefits of the project will continue to be felt beyond the borders of the
province and the country. "We remain committed to ensuring that Gautrain
continues to contribute towards the creation of quality jobs, skills
development and transfer as well as stimulating the provincial economy," said
Mashatile.
The Gautrain rail fleet will comprise 96 Electro star type rail cars that
will be operated initially in four cars train sets. Fifteen of the rail cars,
including the ten customised cars destined for the airport service, are being
manufactured and completed at Bombardier Transportation's manufacturing
facility in Derby, United Kingdom (UK) and will be shipped to South Africa over
the next few months.
Upon delivery to the Gautrain depot each train set will be subjected to a
long and rigorous testing and commissioning process. It is reported that the
train service will be complemented by a dedicated bus fleet which will
transport passengers in air conditioned comfort between the stations and
surrounding suburbs and business nodes.
The bus fleet will initially comprise 125 buses running on approximately 36
routes and covering some 26 000 bus kilometres every day.
Issued by: Department of Transport, Gauteng Provincial Government
4 February 2009
Source: Department of Transport, Gauteng Provincial Government (http://www.gautengonline.gov.za)
