PRASA introduces a revised train schedule as plans are being made to resume rail service

Final preparations are currently being made to resume limited services on the East London and Gqebherha corridors in the Eastern Cape, according to the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA).

This comes after the line was shut down in January because of severe vandalism that prevented the network from functioning.

Beginning on June 23, 2022, there will be limited service on both corridors, with one train departing for the CBD each morning and one returning from the CBD each afternoon.

To account for the limited service, a revised train schedule has been developed.

Initially, both diesel and electric trains were run in the area. However, the severe vandalism caused by cable theft rendered the area completely unusable.

As a temporary measure, PRASA has made diesel locomotives available to resume service while line repairs are made, the agency announced on Tuesday.

The strategic goal of PRASA is to restore services in all of its operational regions through significant interventions, such as the interim operation of non-electric trains.

“We are restoring our services one corridor at a time. Currently, conversion training classes in East London and Gqeberha, which are expected to last five days, are keeping train drivers busy.

In order to ensure the safety of both passengers and employees, testing of the operational lines started on Monday and took seven days to complete, according to PRASA.