The refurbishment of seven railway stations along the KuGompo City rail corridor is set to improve access to affordable public transport for Buffalo City Metro residents as government intensifies efforts to restore passenger rail services in the Eastern Cape. Transport Minister Barbara Creecy recently travelled along the East London rail corridor with Eastern Cape MEC for Transport Xolile Nqatha and other stakeholders to assess progress in restoring railway infrastructure and improving commuter services.
The refurbishment forms part of the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa’s (PRASA) National Station Improvement Programme, which aims to rebuild damaged infrastructure, improve commuter safety and provide reliable transport options. Arnoldton, Fort Jackson, Mdantsane, Mount Ruth, Mtsotso, Panmure and Wilsonia stations in Buffalo City Metro have been upgraded following extensive damage and vandalism during the COVID-19 hard lockdown.
PRASA has invested R115 million over the past two financial years to upgrade ten stations across the province, including the seven along the KuGompo City corridor and three in Gqeberha. Improvements include refurbished station buildings, upgraded platforms, better lighting, improved sanitation and enhanced security through CCTV cameras and access-control systems.
The project has also contributed to local economic development, creating 171 direct jobs, mainly for residents of surrounding communities, and providing opportunities for 27 small, medium and micro enterprises.
The restoration of passenger rail services is expected to ease the financial burden of daily commuting for workers, job seekers and learners who depend on affordable public transport to access employment, education and essential services. To strengthen commuter safety, PRASA is deploying security personnel at stations and on trains while using technology to deter theft and vandalism. Communities are encouraged to protect railway infrastructure and report criminal activities that threaten service delivery.
Meanwhile, the Railway Safety Regulator has approved an increase in train speeds between Berlin and East London from 30 to 60 kilometres per hour, following improvements in safety performance. These developments mark an important step towards restoring reliable passenger rail services, improving mobility and supporting economic activity across Buffalo City and the wider Eastern Cape.
