PRASA to resume train service between Midway and Lenasia

Johannesburg commuters will soon have more travel options between Midway and Lenasia. The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa  (PRASA) announced that it will soon launch a new train service between Midway and Lenasia.

PRASA announced on social media that it has been working to repair a sinkhole between the two stations, which forced service suspensions during the COVID-19 period. So, for nearly five years, trains serving areas such as Lenasia, Sebokeng, Everton, and surrounding communities have been off the network, according to Rainbow FM. This affected thousands of commuters who relied on trains. 

The group also announced that this is a step toward fixing the lines between Johannesburg and Vereeniging. 

"PRASA is proud to announce that work is currently in progress to address the sinkhole between Midway and Lenasia. This initiative is a part of PRASA’s ongoing efforts to restore the corridor to Orange Farm and ultimately Vereeniging," the group announced on social media. 

PRASA also shared images showing repair work currently underway along the affected section of track.

While no exact reopening date has been given, the agency said it expects services to resume in the coming months, before the end of the year.

What this means for Johannesburg? 

Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa, with a population of approximately 6 million. For a city of this size, reliable public transport is essential. 

The return of train services means more people can once again rely on public transport to travel from one place to another. This is especially important for commuters who travel daily between Johannesburg, Vereeniging, and surrounding areas for work, school, business, and personal commitments.

Johannesburg is well known for traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. More trains could help reduce the number of cars on the road, easing traffic and shortening travel times for many commuters.

For many years, trains have long been one of the most affordable, reliable, and safer modes of transport for working-class communities in and around the city.

Beyond transport, the resumption of train services is also expected to boost the local economy. Improved mobility enables people to access jobs, businesses, and services more easily, thereby supporting economic activity in Johannesburg and the surrounding areas.

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