PRASA long-distance trains making a comeback

PRASA long-distance trains, known previously as the Shosholoza Meyl service, are making a comeback. The agency has announced plans to restore limited passenger rail services on four routes next year (2027).

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However, previous efforts to bring back PRASA long-distance trains were derailed by several factors. Back in 2022/2023, it was an ageing and unreliable locomotive fleet that did the trick. And transport experts worry that apparent cuts in locomotive funding, raises further questions about a meaningful recovery.

PRASA LONG-DISTANCE TRAINS

Pre-COVID, the PRASA long-distance trains once linked Johannesburg to Durban, Cape Town, East London and Musina via Polokwane. However, this was shut down in 2020 before a phased return was planned in 2022/2023. Sadly, the comeback was painfully short-lived.

Passengers endured repeated cancellations and massive delays en route. And by 2024, three of the four PRASA long-distance trains routes were suspended again. At the time, the embattled Passenger Rail Agency cited diesel locomotives that were, “too old, unreliable and repeatedly breaking down.”

SO WHY THE SUDDEN RETURN IN 2027?

Hundreds of Shosholoza Meyl carriages sit dormant in Joburg with no locomotives to push them. Image: File

Which begs the question, why revive the PRASA long-distance trains again in 2027? Agency spokesperson Andiswa Makanda acknowledged the challenges, but said the agency intends to resume services. The return routes will include Johannesburg to Queenstown, Durban, Musina and Cape Town.

Back in February, a budget tabled in parliament directed the bulk of PRASA’s funding toward restoring signalling infrastructure for Metrorail trains (the urban commuter rail network). And the budget for new locomotives is being halved over the next three years. R12 billion in 2025/26, down to R6 billion in 2027/28. While the spending on refurbishing existing coaches and locomotives has been scrapped entirely. The controversial General Overhaul Programme was previously worth R200 million.

HOW WILL IT FUND PRASA LONG-DISTANCE TRAINS?

As a result, Makanda admits that PRASA is considering a range of solutions for its 2027 revival, hinging heavily on leasing locomotives. However, the agency has not gone into specifics, like type, quantity and timelines. Nevertheless, for millions of cash-strapped South Africans, a reliable long-haul rail service would offer a worthy alternative to buses, minibuses and flights. Time will tell if the agency can deliver on its promises second time around …

But what do you think? Will we ever see PRASA long-distance trains again? Did you use the service before and how did you find the experience? Let us know in the comments section below …  

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