Chikunga confident trains will become the backbone of public transport again

JOHANNESBURG - Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga says trains across will once again become the backbone of public transportation.
 
The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has gradually reopened 31 of its 40 corridors nationally that were shut down following infrastructure theft and vandalism.
 
On Friday morning, Chikunga and PRASA board members took a train from the recently revived Nancefiled station in Soweto to Park station in the Johannesburg CBD.
 
The rail network connecting Soweto to Park station in the inner city of Johannesburg is a offering cheap commute to workers and pupils.

Figures from Stats SA have shown that the number of people who used trains on a daily basis dropped by over 80% since 2013.
 
Transport Minister Chikunga said that this form of public transportation would soon return to its former glory.
 
"By providing affordable and efficient transportation options, we have empowered marginalised groups, improved access to opportunities and fostered great and socio-economic inclusion."
 
During the minister's train ride on Friday morning, commuters expressed that they’re spending much less than they would when using taxis.