Metrorail re-introduces train service between King and East London

01 Feb 2016 | Admin Author

Metrorail Eastern Cape will be introducing train service between East London and King William’s Town in November.

The service will be introduced in two phases, with phase one starting consisting of a Bus Shuttle Service from Fort Jackson to William’s Town.

While phase two will be the implementation of a fully-fledged Metro Plus and Business Express Class train service from East London to King William’s Town.

Povincial transport department spokesperson Ncedo Kumbaca says the re-introduction of the service is Metrorail's response to customer demand, and is aligned to the PRASA vision to provide enhanced mobility as a gateway to accessible, social and economic opportunities and shared future.

He adds that the service will benefit passengers to and from work, and is priced competitively.

Meanwhile, the Department of Transport has issued a warning to rail passengers not to train surf.

Minister Dipuo Peters launched a nationwide train safety campaign in Gauteng on Friday.

Officials will host safety workshops AND increase security on trains across the country over the festive season.

The department says 7 people have already died this year in accidents linked to train surfing.

Spokesperson for the Railway Safety Regulator - Babalwa Mpendu says they're also looking to ensure train companies follow safety rules.

"What we do is that we've got inspectors who are sort of our compliance monitors. We are currently in the finalisation process of the penalty free regime we will be issuing penalties to operators who do not comply." says Mpendu