Snl24 | Big blow for train passengers!

Prasa cuts train services to Vereeniging, leaving commuters stranded.

THE Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) has decided to stop its train service to Vereeniging, Vaal due to low passenger usage.

This decision has significantly impacted many people who relied on the train for commuting to work or for business purposes.

Kabelo Mokoena (38) previously sold fruit and vegetables on the train. 

Speaking to Daily Sun, Kabelo said he’s unhappy because now he has to operate at the taxi rank, where business is slow. 

ALSO READ: Hubby ‘kills’ wife in nyatsi TV fight

Another commuter from Evaton, Vaal shared how the train was a cost-effective means for job hunting in Joburg, especially after losing his job during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Some commuters have slammed Prasa for not considering the needs of the disadvantaged who depend on the train for its affordability.

“A train is the cheapest transport we can afford. If they take it away, our money will be consumed by expensive taxis. We believe they should reconsider their decision. Our jobs don’t pay us enough,” a commuter said.

Lillian Mofokeng, Gauteng Metrorail spokeswoman, explained that the service to Vereeniging had to be terminated due to persistently low patronage since its inception on 30 October 2020.

“Despite efforts to increase ridership, the service did not attract enough passengers, necessitating its closure,” Mofokeng said. 

For more news and entertainment in the palm of your hand, follow our WhatsApp Channel via this link.

Get the best in Soccer, News and Lifestyle content with SNL24 PLUS

For 14 free days, you can have access to the best from Soccer Laduma, KickOff, Daily Sun, TrueLove and Drum. Thereafter you will be billed R29 per month. You can cancel anytime and if you cancel within 14 days you won’t be billed.