/ 28 February 2005

SA’s top luxury train back on track

The world-famous Blue Train is back in full operation after one set of carriages was withdrawn in March 2003 because of fire damage, Spoornet said on Monday.

”The fire-detection system on the damaged train set has now been updated and improved with the latest technology, which is both coach- and centrally controlled,” Dorcas Ledwaba, manager of the Blue Train, said in a statement.

In the event of the slightest smoke or fire, the improved system will immediately indicate a potential fire risk.

Ledwaba said changes made to the fire-damaged train set included moving the club car — the only area on board the train where smoking is allowed — from the centre of the train to the end of the train.

New gas detectors and improved brake controls were also introduced.

Since its inception in 1946, the Blue Train has been synonymous with hospitality, tourism and leisure.

Both train sets were refurbished in 1997 and 1998. Guests have luxurious rail travel with en-suite bath/shower facilities, air-cushion suspension for a smooth ride, and a driver’s-eye-view camera.

The Blue Train has won numerous awards, including being voted for four consecutive years (1998 to 2001) as the world’s leading luxury train by about 250 000 travel agents in 181 countries at the World Travel Awards. — Sapa