Cape's transport plan ahead for 2010

By Tando Mfengwana
24 October 2006

Transport and Public Works minister Marius Fransman announced a major plan to deal with the transport challenges in Cape Town.

This plan is aimed improving public transport ahead of the 2010 FIFA world cup. Fransman said that his department, the National government and the City of Cape Town have put aside R3, 5 million for the project.

He said that this would go towards the addition of about 10 to 20 new train sets over the next three years, the rolling out of safety mechanisms on trains.

A R100 million upgrading of infrastructure at the Cape Town Central station which will possibly receive R95 million for restructuring, Athlone, Heideveld and Langa station have also been earmarked for upgrading.

The government plans to introduce corridors between:
· Kraaifontein – Bellville – CBD Cape Town Corridor
· Khayelitsha – CBD Cape Town corridor
· Simons Town – CBD Cape Town

It also plans to increase usable train sets from 80 to 107 sets and render train services for 18 hours a day after the addition of additional trains.

Fransman says that the department plans to create and cycle ways in conjunction with pedestrian ways in the city centre as part of the program.

The department will work with the City’s Transport Department to clarify national and regional requirements and emphasise legacy projects.

The minister said that they are discussing with the city a possible rail link between the city and the airport.

The department and the City of Cape Town have applied for R1 billion funding for transport and infrastructure projects in the city.

Fransman is hoping these plans will renew people’s confidence in public transportation. The project is expected to be finished in time for the World Cup in 2010.