CAPE TOWN — The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has announced the introduction of new blue and white modern Electric Multiple Units (EMUs) on the Central Line, extending the service from Nyanga to Mandalay station in the Western Cape.
According to South African Government News Agency, this marks a significant milestone as it is the first deployment of the ‘People’s Train’ on this corridor following the completion of essential electrical and perway infrastructure between Nyanga and Nolungile. Communities along the Central Line now join others enjoying the new high-tech modern trains on other corridors. These state-of-the-art trains feature automated doors, CCTV cameras, and air-conditioning, ensuring a comfortable and secure trip for all passengers.
“In addition to the new trains, the completion of signaling from Langa to Mutual Line marks a significant milestone in our efforts to enhance the safety and reliability of our services. Work to re-signal the rest of the Central corridor continues. This modern signaling system will not only improve the frequency and punctuality of our trains but will also reduce delays and congestion,” PRASA said Thursday.
The rollout of new trains and the advanced signaling system demonstrates PRASA’s commitment to revitalizing and modernizing commuter rail services. “This important development in the region ensures we offer a safe, efficient, and dignified service to the 40% of Cape Town’s commuters who rely on this key route. Extending the service on the Central Line to Mandalay station is expected to bring positive socio-economic benefits to the communities of Langa, Nyanga, Khayelitsha, Mitchells Plain, and other areas along the line.”
PRASA’s recent achievements include the reopening of 31 out of 40 commuter rail corridors and the refurbishment of 263 out of 463 stations, further underscoring its commitment to enhancing rail services across the country.