2030 is set to mark a new era for rail travel in South Africa. The much-awaited Limpopo-Gauteng Speed Train will reportedly start operating.
The Gauteng and Limpopo provincial governments, the national Department of Transport, and private investors are reportedly working to secure the project's required funding and complete technical plans.
It is anticipated that work on the 500-kilometer north-south railway will begin in late 2026.
In 2024, MEC for Roads and Transport Kedibone Diale-Tlabela announced during the budget speech that her department and the Limpopo Provincial Government were close to signing an agreement.
“We are pleased to announce that we are on the verge of signing an agreement with the Limpopo Provincial Government regarding the high-speed rail project,” she said.
“This agreement marks a significant step forward in formalizing our commitment and collaboration, bringing us closer to the realization of this transformative transportation initiative,” she added.
The train was first announced in 2023. The then Gauteng Premier, Panyaza Lesufi, and then Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba met Mookgophong, Waterberg, to discuss their plans about the train.
“We are of the view that the economies of the two provinces are beginning to merge, and we must find ways of harnessing this growth. This is not a vision of one province; it is a joint vision that is driven from all angles. Together, we can create a seamless transport network that will benefit our citizens and businesses alike,” Panyaza said.
Dr Phophi Ramathuba added: “This meeting is a pivotal moment, where we have reached consensus on key principles and practical steps. The realisation of this project will not only create jobs but will transform our cities with high-speed rail stations that will become dynamic hubs of economic activity, stimulating urban development and increasing property values. We are committed to making this vision a reality for the benefit of all our people.”
The new rail network will transform South Africa’s transportation system, help support tourism, connect the major provinces, and offer commuters an alternative, safer, and more convenient option.
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