The Chairperson of the Select Committee on Economic Business Development, Mr Boingotlo Nthebe, has supported calls for the integration of rail operations in Gauteng.
The Committee is in a week-long oversight visit to Gauteng, part of which included oversight over Gautrain operations. The Provincial MEC for Transport, Dr Ismail Valdi, told the Committee that Gauteng is facing the challenge of operating two separate rail transport systems (Gautrain and Metrorail). “Gauteng is the backbone of South Africa’s economy and employs a lot more South Africans than any other province. Millions of our people in this province are moved through the rail systems to and from work daily. That calls for a seamless, quality and efficient rail operation,” Mr Nthebe said.
“Integration of Gautrain and the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa’s (Prasa’s) Metrorail operations can no longer be delayed. Integration is a necessity that should be factored into long-term strategic planning of transport infrastructure projects,” Mr Nthebe said.
“This Administration should and would ensure a quality, safe and reliable public transport system where there is cooperation from across the board, including taxis, busses and train operations. It is undisputable that public transport is a necessity for sustainable economic development,” he said.
“Delivery of quality services should not be according to where one lives. All our efforts should be geared towards realising a better life for all, whether one lives in a township or a suburb. There has to be synergy in government, so that an improved service is accorded all South Africans.”
He said the integration of Gautrain and Metrorail operations should be attended to urgently, and that this service should be affordable.
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