PRASA expands transport services through rail safety and bus fleet renewal

The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) is expanding its transport services through both rail safety improvements and fleet modernization. Passenger rail trips have increased from 77 million to 101 million, prompting a focus on managing safety risks such as overcrowding, station security, and infrastructure protection. PRASA is investing in signalling improvements in the Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Gauteng, while also implementing drone-based surveillance and electronic security to combat theft and vandalism.

In its long-distance division, PRASA has introduced 17 new buses to its City-to-City fleet, the first such acquisition since 2010. These coaches feature advanced safety technology, including lane assistance and stability systems. Transport Minister Barbara Creecy announced that this is part of a larger fleet renewal programme aimed at acquiring 95 modern coaches by 2030. These bus services are intended to complement long-distance rail to provide affordable connectivity between cities and rural communities.