A new train — the Soweto Business Express — is set to entice car commuters to use public transport, Transport Minister Jeff Radebe said, launching the service in Soweto on Tuesday.
”I’m delighted to say that the introduction today of the Soweto Business Express … will go a long way towards creating a culture of public transport among all South Africans,” he said.
”It is an important development that will create a breeding ground for the growth of public transport over private car use”.
Radebe was at the Naledi station in Soweto to unveil the new train service. The ”self-funded” train will transport passengers from Naledi station in Soweto to Park Station in Johannesburg, with three stops in between.
According to the South African Rail Commuter Corporation, the train’s allure lies in its comfort, speed and extra facilities. These include internet connections, complimentary newspapers and refreshments. Security guards will also be posted on the train.
Radebe, with provincial transport minister Ignatius Jacobs, caught the train for its first trip on Tuesday morning.
From the outside, the only visible difference between the new train and ordinary trains on parallel tracks was a new paint job and curtains on the windows. – Sapa