PRASA and Gautrain Partner to Provide Transport for Rugby Fans

Minister Creecy also highlighted the critical role that rail transport plays in the daily lives of South Africans.

In a bid to highlight Gauteng’s integrated urban transport system, the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) and the Gautrain Management Agency have joined forces to provide seamless transportation for fans attending this weekend’s highly anticipated rugby test match between the Springboks and the All Blacks.

"We are showcasing the fact that here in Gauteng, commuters can walk or take a bus or taxi to a PRASA or Gautrain station, and board a train to get to Emirates Park Stadium via Ellis Park Train Station," said Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy on Sunday.

On Saturday, August 31, 2024, rugby fans will have the opportunity to board the Gautrain at various stations, travel to Park Station in Johannesburg’s central business district, and then transfer to the recently revamped PRASA Park Station Mall. After grabbing a bite to eat at one of the mall's food outlets, fans can hop on a train for the quick three-minute ride to Ellis Park Station, just in time for the match.

Minister Creecy emphasized that this collaboration between PRASA, the Gautrain Management Agency, the City of Johannesburg, and the Rugby Union at Emirates Park Stadium aims to demonstrate how different elements of public transport can and should work together for the convenience of the public. The Gauteng Provincial Government, as the host province, is also supporting this initiative.

Fans can board the Gautrain from any of the seven stations between Hatfield and Park Stations, including Hatfield, Pretoria, Centurion, Midrand, Marlboro, Sandton, and Rosebank. Alternatively, they can start their journey from one of the five stations between OR Tambo International Airport and Park Station, with a necessary transfer at Sandton Station.

Minister Creecy also highlighted the critical role that rail transport plays in the daily lives of South Africans. She stressed the importance of fostering closer links between provinces and municipalities to ensure that people can easily access public transport for work, school, or events like rugby or football matches.

“Our government, across national, provincial, and local spheres, must work together to design and build sustainable cities with integrated transport systems that contribute to growing our country’s economy and ultimately benefit our citizens,” Creecy said. She also mentioned the proposed expansion of the Gautrain network further north and south as a prime example of efforts to create sustainable cities with well-integrated public transport systems.