The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) has announced that its Shosholoza Meyl train service will resume trips between Johannesburg to Durban and Cape Town.
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Prasa’s Mainline Passenger Services (MLPS) division resumed the long-distance train service after a two-year hiatus.
‘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. These services resume as cash-strapped consumers are battling with the costs of long-distance travel,’ Prasa said in a statement.
‘Furthermore, Prasa is also pleased to announce that, for added convenience, Shosholoza Meyl [will offer] an affordable private car transportation service at an additional cost for passengers travelling to Durban. This service is also open to the public, providing a convenient option for those who wish to transport their vehicles.’
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The organisation says it is making ‘significant strides in rebuilding and recovering the rail infrastructure’. To date, 27 commuter rail lines have been restored.
‘The resumption of the Johannesburg to Durban and Cape Town services mark(s) another milestone in the revival of long-distance passenger rail services. Customers are reminded that limited seats and space are available.’
Prasa says it is also working to restore the Shosholoza Meyl’s route between Johannesburg to Queenstown and Musina.
These are the train fares for the Shosholoza Meyl:
Cape Town
Johannesburg Park Station to Cape Town Station (per person single)
- Economy class (sitter): R430
- Tourist class (sleeper): R690
The first train departs on 6 December 2023.
Durban
Johannesburg Park Station to Durban Station (per person single)
- Economy class (sitter): R170
- Tourist class (sleeper): 360
The first train departs on 8 December 2023.
Car transportation
4×4 (Prices available upon request).
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Also read:
Transport minister aims for 80% recovery of passenger rail by year-end
Picture: Prasa Group / Facebook
