Metrorail to start operating once SA moves to Level-3 lockdown: Mbalula

Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula says Metrorail will only start operating once the country moves to Level-3 of the national lockdown. South Africa is now on Level-4, where certain services, including some companies, are allowed to operate.

The Gautrain is operating with social distancing seating arrangements in place and testing with an e-health scanner being done at the Hatfield station. This process may be rolled out to the whole service once it proves to be effective. The Minister says he is impressed by the work of the Gautrain management.

“I’m impressed by the work management here has undertaken to adhere with our transport regulations. From the bus, to the station and the train itself, measures have been put in place to ensure the safety of commuters.”

In the video below, the Transport Minister briefs the media after inspecting the Gautrain:

Mbalula says Metrorail will only open lines that are ready to operate.

“We envisage Metrorail opening up at Level-3 and full force at Level -2. Level-3 will not also be total opening of the Metrorail or under Prasa. We will open certain lines that are ready.”

Today I was aboard the GauBus and the Gautrain, I’m impressed by the work Management here has undertaken to adhere with our Transport Regulations.

From the bus, to the station and the train itself.

Measures have been put in place to ensure safety of commuters. pic.twitter.com/p50EORw9uV

— Minister of Transport |Mr Fix (@MbalulaFikile) May 4, 2020