New east rand business express train launched
Metrorail Gauteng has launched the new, luxurious business express train service on the Springs-Johannesburg corridor.
During the launch, attendees took a test ride between Springs and Johannesburg Park Station.
The event was attended by dignitaries from the transport industry both in government and the private sector hosted by the Metrorail provincial manager, Tembela Kulu.
In contrast to the normal Metrorail service, the train takes less than 50 minutes to travel from Springs to Johannesburg, and its only stops will be in Pollak Park, Benoni and Germiston, before it reaches its final destination, Park Station in Johannesburg.
The train is convenient and commuters are travelling in comfort and style, as part of the revitalisation of rail transport in the province.
The train service offers free refreshments on board, free coffee, water and free newspapers.
Stewards and stewardesses are placed in every coach.
At the stations, secured covered parking and shuttle services to ferry commuters to the various business nodes within a 5km radius, is provided.
All of this for only R29.00 single ticket, return R58.00, weekly R255.00 and monthly ticket R780.
The Springs Johannesburg Business Express is expected to transport 192 passengers, and will run during the morning and afternoon peak periods.
“This train is one of the many interventions that are currently underway to position commuter rail and public transport as the preferred, safe mass mode of transport for many commuters and the public,” says Kulu.
According to Gauteng Metrorail spokesperson Lillian Mofokeng, the Business Express Service concept was introduced to give business people a safe, reliable, comfortable and fast alternative to road travel to and from work.
Mofokeng adds that, the Business Express seeks to contribute to the reduction of congestion on the roads in Ekurhuleni, demonstrate transport integration as well as position rail as a preferred mode of public transport between the two cities.
The identified target market is administrators, young and upcoming professionals in business and government who can afford a car, and/or use taxis to commute between the two cities.
“This market represents individuals in the lower, middle and upper income groups, who would like to have a first-class train service that is safe, fast and affordable.”
It is hoped that the train service will encourage young professionals to abandon their vehicles and take the train to work.
Metrorail is looking at introducing more business express services in other corridors in the near future.
Is there a possibility for this train to stop at boksburg east station.
Thank you so much, we have long been waiting for this. Is it possible for the train to stop at one of the stations in Boksburg as germiston is a bit far? lastly, can you also provide parking for those who are going to leave their cars at the station?
It would be highly appreciated if the same train can run from Johannesburg to Roodepoort as we are experiencing a heavy traffic morning and evening even weekend for that matter.
i need a price for the metrorail from johannesburgto middelburg