Department of Transport Announces Plans for 300km/h Train
The Department of Transport has announced plans for a high-speed railway line linking Johannesburg and Durban, capable of reaching speeds of 300 km/h.
According to Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy, the 120 km/h regional trains will run on existing infrastructure, connecting key cities such as Pretoria, Johannesburg, Polokwane, Musina, Mbombela and Durban.
Plans also include new lines capable of running trains at speeds of between 160 km/h and 200 km/h.
The minister noted that it is too early to predict a timeline for development.
Minister Creecy reflected on her experience with the Gautrain, stating that it took three years from the RFI process to financial closure and another seven years to complete construction.
She emphasized the importance of starting groundwork now, stating that progress is impossible without initial action.
Author's summary: Department of Transport plans 300km/h train line.