Gautrain Chairperson Mfanelo Patrick Ntsobi has revealed that the rail system is being reshaped with a clear long-term vision to become more than just a train service.
The Gautrain, first launched in 2010 as a rapid rail public-private partnership built ahead of the FIFA World Cup, was developed to connect Johannesburg, Pretoria and OR Tambo International Airport through a modern high-speed system.
It was constructed and operated under a concession model led by Bombela, at a cost of about R26 billion, and has since carried hundreds of millions of passengers while becoming a key part of Gauteng’s transport network. The system is now a fully paid-up state asset worth an estimated R45 billion to R50 billion.
Ntsobi said the next phase will focus on expanding access, improving affordability and strengthening Gautrain’s role in economic growth and social inclusion in Gauteng.
He said the goal is to transform the system into a “mobility and lifestyle platform” that connects people not only to transport, but also to business, services, retail and opportunity.
“Our ambition is not simply to operate a world-class rail system, but to evolve into Gauteng’s leading mobility and lifestyle platform, a seamless gateway that connects people to transport, services, business, retail, entertainment and opportunity,” he told IOL.
The Gautrain Management Agency has also confirmed that preparations are underway for a new 15-year public-private partnership operator.
“The process is progressing through the necessary governance and negotiation stages, while existing arrangements ensure the continued safe, reliable and uninterrupted operation of the Gautrain system”.
IOL also previously reported that the Gauteng government’s plans for the expansion of the Gautrain rail network are moving forward following the gazetting of new proposed routes. The expansion is expected to create more than 125,000 construction jobs.
The proposed routes include:
- A line from Little Falls through Roodepoort to Jabulani in Soweto, largely underground, aimed at improving east–west connectivity into the township economy.
- A corridor from Cosmo City to Lanseria Airport via Cradle and Smart City developments, designed to link residential areas with key economic and aviation hubs.
- A major route from Cosmo City through Fourways, Sunninghill and Olivenhoutbosch to Samrand, connecting northern and eastern growth nodes and integrating with the existing Gautrain network
Ntsobi said engagements are ongoing with the National Treasury on the funding model, but indicated that a blended approach is being considered.
“we continue to engage Treasury, but we anticipate a blended funding model comprising funding from the public sector, private sector, as well as alternative funding sources that includes the commercialisation of the network”.
He also revealed that there are also plans to expand how Gautrain stations are used, including turning them into more commercial and service-oriented spaces.
“Alongside network growth, we are focused on unlocking greater value from Gautrain’s assets and infrastructure.
“Initiatives such as station commercialisation and the introduction of complementary services are intended to create more convenient, integrated experiences for passengers while diversifying revenue streams and supporting the long-term sustainability of the system”.
He also said the rail service plans to become more accessible, with continued efforts to improve affordability and widen access for more commuters across Gauteng.
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Mthobisi Nozulela
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