Transport Minister invites private sector to partner in SA's rail revitalisation

Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has unveiled a new 'Request for Information' (RFI) process, formally inviting the private sector to partner with the government in revitalising South Africa's passenger rail network.

Speaking at a media briefing in Pretoria on Sunday afternoon, Minister Creecy stated that the RFI "marks another important milestone in the collective journey to make rail the cornerstone of the country's national transport and logistics system."

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The minister reported that the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has restored 35 out of its 40 passenger corridors and recorded 77 million passengers in the previous financial year.

However, Creecy noted that additional investment is essential to sustain progress and modernise services.

She elaborated on the specific goals of the partnership, stating: "We want to partner with the private sector to modernise our maintenance depots at Braamfontein and Meyerton. This will mean faster train repairs, better reliability and new investment in nearby areas, creating jobs and boosting local development."