Modernization of PRASA: New Trains and CTC Systems in South Africa in 2025

South Africa’s government allocates $1 billion for modernization of PRASA in 2025. Funds will support CTC upgrades and new trains. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

National carrier PRASA will channel this money into upgrading outdated CTC systems in suburban areas. Advanced technologies will enhance the efficiency of 240 new trains and reduce intervals to ten minutes.

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Modernization of PRASA: New Technologies for Transport

Upgraded equipment will lower transport costs for South Africans and improve service quality. However, vandalism and cable theft during the COVID-19 pandemic severely disrupted network operations.

Currently, specialists are restoring the Central line between Cape Town and Chris Hani (Khayelitsha). Test runs on this 37-kilometer electrified track began in March 2025.

The Central line, with a 1067 mm gauge, operates on 3 kV DC power. Full service resumption is planned for May 2025 after safety checks.

The railway safety regulator must issue approval, and then trains will resume running on schedule. Engineers are also actively repairing the Central line branch to Mitchells Plain.

Modernization of PRASA: Line Restoration and Savings

New CTC systems will ensure reliable connections in densely populated South African suburbs and improve transport accessibility. Because advanced traffic control technologies will prevent disruptions and delays on routes.

PRASA is procuring over 240 trains under a rolling stock renewal program since 2023. And this will enable the company to fully transform suburban line operations by 2027.

Cape Town residents and surrounding areas will gain reliable transport as line restoration progresses rapidly. Specialists expect to complete major network upgrades within two years.

Funding from the 2025 budget will accelerate modernization and enhance railway safety. Because outdated CTC systems have long needed replacement due to wear and frequent breakdowns.

PRASA has already started equipment procurement, and initial test results inspire optimism. New technologies will make journeys faster and more comfortable for millions of passengers.

Restoring the Central line is a key step, as it connects vital Cape Town districts. Khayelitsha and Mitchells Plain residents will save time and money on travel.

South Africa’s government invests in transport because it supports the economy and social stability. And PRASA’s upgrades will strengthen the country’s position as a regional leader.

Passengers eagerly await May 2025, when trains will run on schedule again. Active work on PRASA’s network confirms that change is near for South Africa.

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