The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) is making impressive strides in restoring passenger rail services across the country.
CEO Hishaam Emeran announced that the urban rail network carried approximately 40 million passengers in the 2023/24 fiscal year, utilizing 31 out of the 40 operational PRASA rail corridors.
Passenger Numbers Soar:
Emeran revealed a remarkable increase in passenger numbers, rising by nearly 25 million compared to the previous year. This substantial growth highlights the growing confidence and reliance on PRASA’s services.
Commuters are now benefiting from improved access to PRASA’s services with 263 refurbished stations, and further station upgrades are planned for the current financial year.
Recovery from Theft and Vandalism:
PRASA has successfully recovered almost 80% of passenger rail corridors that were severely impacted by theft and vandalism during the COVID-19 lockdown. This recovery has been instrumental in the resurgence of rail passenger numbers.
The revitalization of 31 corridors has led to a steady influx of rail passengers. While acknowledging that there is still work to be done, Emeran expressed optimism about the significant progress made.
Investment and Job Creation:
PRASA has invested over R12 billion in capital projects, generating approximately 4,500 jobs. This investment has been crucial in achieving major milestones and demonstrating a positive turnaround in South Africa’s rail sector.
Emeran attributed PRASA’s achievements to its ability to effectively execute its capital program, resulting in tangible improvements in rail infrastructure and services.
Emeran’s Dual Leadership Roles:
Emeran not only serves as the CEO of PRASA but has also been elected as the president of the Southern African Railways Association (SARA). In this capacity, he emphasizes the critical role of rail in the African continent’s development.
Emeran advocates for ambitious programs to expand the role of both passenger and freight rail, recognizing their potential to contribute significantly to Africa’s socioeconomic prosperity.
Prioritizing Rail Upgrades within SARA:
Fixing and upgrading rail infrastructure is a key goal within SARA, given the heavy burden placed on Africa’s roads. Emeran acknowledges the excellent work being done in the logistics sector, driven by the South African Presidency.
Emeran emphasizes the importance of prioritizing transport networks, as the economic and social costs of a failing rail system and congested roads far outweigh the investment required for improvement and modernization.
He also highlights the importance of affordable, safe, and reliable public transport, with rail as its backbone, in addressing high unemployment rates across the continent.