An investigation into Cape Town's rail network suggests the City could not only improve rail services but also develop new housing and commercial spaces around stations. The report, to be reviewed by the city council on December 5, 2023, outlines potential improvements and new lines.
Passenger rail, which should be the backbone of Cape Town ’s public transport system, has been in decline for a decade under PRASA ’s management, losing 92% of passenger trips since the 2012/13 financial year.
The new report, which has been in the making since July 2022, is to be set before the city council for approval on 5 December. An alternative direct route from Simon’s Town to Cape Town would run via the Central Line rather than the Southern Line, which is presently the direct line. The Central Line currently terminates at Heathfield. People travelling between Simon’s Town and stations between Heathfield and Cape Town – such as Newlands or Observatory – would have to change trains at Heathfield. This is because the Southern Line has relatively low demand compared to other lines.
The study notes that rail customers are very sensitive to fare increases, and that with every 1% increase in the fare, there is a 0.37% loss in customers. The balance struck is an 80% fare increase, which would come with a 30% loss in customers. Currently, one-way fares are R18 return during peak hours. An 80% increase would peg that at R32.40.
However, the City looked at developing 110 vacant or underutilised parcels of land situated around 25 stations, and projects an annual rental income of R6.2-billion from these. This includes 54,000 new residential units of different sizes that could be built, as well as shops, offices, and industrial properties at stations such as Ndabeni. This would not only provide an income stream but also stimulate economic activity and urban densification around these stations.
Cape Town Rail Network Public Transport PRASA City Council
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