The revival of the Mitchells Plain rail corridor in the Western Cape – undertaken by South African passenger rail transport company Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA), in collaboration with the City of Cape Town (CoCT) – is nearing completion, with rail infrastructure repair and upgrades already completed.

The revival project includes key upgrades, such as the replacement and repair of rail tracks, overhead electrical infrastructure and substations, and a new signalling system, says PRASA marketing and communication head Zinobulali Mihi.

The agency will also carry out work on station infrastructure, including access control solutions, lighting, platforms and security features.

“The recovery and upgrades are critical in restoring safe, reliable and predictable train services for commuters. Improved infrastructure enhances operational efficiency, reduces travel times and increases service.

“Further, the modernised systems contribute to improved passenger safety and better customer experience, and support [the] broader objectives of shifting commuters back to rail as a cost-effective and sustainable public transport node.”

Mihi adds that the full cost of the rail corridor’s infrastructure recovery forms part of PRASA’s broader capital investment programme for network modernisation and corridor recovery, with varying costs, depending on the scope of work and the extent of damage.

“Significant investment has been directed towards rebuilding critical infrastructure, with funding prioritised to restore key commuter corridors, including Mitchells Plain,” she avers.

PRASA Western Cape remains committed to working in close collaboration with the CoCT and key stakeholders to safeguard rail infrastructure. This partnership is strengthened through PRASA’s active representation at the City’s Transport Management Centre and participation in Transport Priority Committee engagements. These platforms enable enhanced coordination, information sharing and integrated planning to support reliable rail operations and the broader transport management agenda.

“The city’s support in by-law enforcement, visible policing and broader urban management initiatives plays an important role in safeguarding rail assets and ensuring the sustainability of services. PRASA remains committed to restoring rail services in the Western Cape, with a strong focus on reliability, safety and customer service,” she concludes.