At least R120 billion has been invested in Gautrain‘s planned expansion of its rail network, designed to offer commuters in Soweto and other parts of Gauteng townships a faster, safer and more reliable transport option.

This follows Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s State of the Province Address, where he outlined the timelines and the routes earmarked for inclusion in the expanded network.

Gautrain Management says the aim of the expansion is to connect underserved areas to the rapid rail network.

People living in areas further from the city centre have been the most impacted, largely due to the country’s history of spatial separation, which pushed non‑white communities to the periphery of business hubs.

Gautrain says it’s looking to penetrate those areas that were previously excluded with its high-speed express trains.

Spokesperson, Albie Modise, says, “If someone is sitting in Jabulani and they want to connect to Midrand, it will be a swift movement from one point to go to Midrand. The same applies if someone is sitting in Sandton and needs to get to Jabulani; they can simply connect with another train swiftly and safely.”

Modise says the expansion is more than just about trains; it’s about transporting the economy while ensuring inclusivity.

“SASSA pension cardholders will be receiving special rebates, and that also applies to people with disabilities.”

Some passengers have expressed mixed emotions about this project.

“I’m very happy, this means that we won’t need to come to town before we head to where we were actually going. So, it is cost-effective and faster for us.”

“There might be a high chance that people might be mugged, and the safety of the people, whereas if it is in the suburbs, the chances of people being mugged are slightly less than in the townships.”

Experts have also urged the Gautrain to expand to areas with no Metrorail transport infrastructure, to broaden the scope of accessibility for communities.

Video | Gautrain expansion to target faster and safer commuting