JOHANNESBURG – To showcase integrated mass transit in Gauteng, the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) and the Gautrain Management Agency (Gautrain) have teamed up to transport fans to this weekend’s Test match between the Springboks and the All Blacks.
“We are demonstrating that commuters here in Gauteng can walk, take a bus or cab to a PRASA or Gautrain station and board a train that will take them to Emirates Park Stadium via Ellis Park station,” said Transport Minister Barbara Creecy on Sunday.
Rugby fans can hop on the Gautrain and travel to Park Station, go to the newly revamped PRASA Park Station Mall, grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants and then catch the train to the game on Saturday, August 31, 2024.
“The train ride from Park Station in the Johannesburg CBD (Central Business District) to Ellis Park Station only takes three minutes. What we are doing for the game is showing how different elements of public transport can and should work together,” said Creecy.
PRASA and the Gautrain Management Agency, working with the City of Johannesburg and the Rugby Union at Emirates Park Stadium, have decided to commit to this international event to ensure a hassle-free and safe transportation solution for fans wishing to use the train.
The event is also supported by the provincial government of Gauteng, the host province.
Rugby fans can board the Gautrain at any of the seven stations between Hatfield and Park Stations (Hatfield, Pretoria, Centurion, Midrand, Marlboro, Sandton and Rosebank) or at any of the five stations between OR Tambo International Airport and Park Stations (OR Tambo, Rhodesfield, Marlboro, Sandton, Rosebank) – with a change at Sandton station, of course.
The Minister emphasised the crucial role that rail plays in the daily lives of South Africans and said the Department of Transport will create closer links between provinces and municipalities to ensure that people can travel by public transport to work or school or to a rugby or football match.
“Our government must work together at national, provincial and local levels to design and build sustainable cities with integrated transportation systems that help grow our country’s economy and ultimately benefit our citizens.
“The proposed extension of the Gautrain network to the north and south is a clear example of our intention to further integrate our public transport system to create sustainable cities that work for our citizens,” the Minister said.
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