The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) has revised its fare structure following strong objections from trade unions, commuter groups, and civil society organisations ahead of today’s planned increase.

This comes after days of mounting pressure, with the United Commuters Voice (UCV) confirming that the adjusted fares will now reflect more affordable rates for working-class commuters.

The Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu) was among those that voiced concern ahead of the increase, calling for fare adjustments to be tied to inflation and warning that steep hikes would alienate commuters still reeling from the high cost of living.

“While Cosatu welcomes the huge improvements Prasa has made to its infrastructure as well as the rollout of the new trains, the federation believes the proposed ticket price hike is high and will be burdensome to commuters who are already battling to cope,” said Tony Ehrenreich, Cosatu deputy parliamentary coordinator.

The federation argued that Prasa should use this period to rebuild public trust by positioning itself as the primary transport option for the working class.

“To achieve this, the federation urges Prasa to limit the fare increase to the prevailing inflation rate,” it said.

It also cautioned that a sharp increase could reinforce negative perceptions from the past when Prasa was known for mismanagement and unreliable service.

Instead of driving up ticket costs, Cosatu recommended attracting more passengers to improve revenue.

“Prasa should steer clear of implementing a price increase that will change the cost structure of rail transport fees,” Cosatu said.

“While mindful of the significant investment in infrastructure, the rail agency should aim to recoup costs by swelling the number of commuters rather than relying solely on increased fare contribution.”

Cosatu added that any fare increases above inflation should only be implemented after public transport subsidy policies are finalised through Nedlac.

UCV, which led coordinated objections with support from commuters, labour, and community groups, confirmed that Prasa has now backed down from its initial fare plan.

“The fare increase, originally scheduled for full implementation on 1 August 2025, has now been adjusted downwards to reflect more affordable rates that take into account the financial strain on low-income commuters,” said UCV National Chairperson Paul Soto.

“We thank all stakeholders who stood in solidarity with us against the initially proposed fare hikes that were threatening affordability and access to public transport,” Soto said. “Your voices have made it clear that decisions affecting the poor must be made in consultation with the key stakeholders.”

The new structure includes lower monthly ticket increases than those originally communicated, and discounts for school children, military veterans, and senior citizens.

• Monthly ticket increases have been scaled down.

• Pensioners and military veterans will retain their 50% off-peak discount• Schoolchildren in full uniform will receive a 50% discount at all times.

• A 40% off-peak discount remains in place for general commuters travelling between 9am and 2pm.

Prasa said the updated fares had been approved by the Minister of Transport and noted that this was its first fare adjustment in 10 years.

“Despite these adjustments, rail remains South Africa’s most affordable public transport mode,” Prasa stated in its official announcement.

The agency confirmed that the amendments were made after identifying discrepancies in the original fare table and following feedback from commuter stakeholders.

It said the changes would support improved service delivery, safety, and reliability across the Metrorail network.

Both Cosatu and UCV reiterated their commitment to advocating for an affordable, safe, and reliable public transport system.

Cosatu also signalled its readiness to help fast-track policy processes at Nedlac that ensure fare increases are equitable and rooted in commuters’ lived realities.

mandilakhe.tshwete@inl.co.za 

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