In response to a parliamentary question from the DA, the Provincial Minister of Mobility, Ricardo Mackenzie, expressed that he was not aware that any action has been taken by the National Government against PRASA concerning the endangerment of passengers' lives when they were forced to jump out of a stationary train.

On 15 June, an incident occurred on Cape Town’s southern line involving a PRASA train that came to a sudden halt, leading passengers to disembark and continue their journey on foot. This situation was particularly distressing for elderly commuters who displayed visible fear due to the significant drop between the train door and the tracks. The prevailing dysfunction at PRASA poses a serious threat to the safety of residents.

I intend to write a letter to the National Minister of Transport, Sindisiwe Chikunga, urging her to initiate an investigation into this matter.

MPP Derrick America said: "It is of utmost importance to restore the functionality of passenger rail, but passenger safety should never be compromised. The DA in the Western Cape remains committed to advocating for the devolution of passenger rail services."

 

Issued by Derrick America, MPP - DA Western Cape Spokesperson on Mobility