By Phenyo Selinda
Johannesburg – The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) and the Gautrain Management Agency (Gautrain) have joined forces to provide efficient and hassle-free transport for rugby fans attending the much-anticipated Springboks versus All Blacks test match at Emirates Airline Park on 31 August 2024.
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy, in her announcement on Sunday, highlighted that this collaboration is not just about ensuring fans can reach the stadium on time, but also about showcasing how various elements of public transport in Gauteng can work together seamlessly. “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 the Emirates Park Stadium, via Ellis Park Train Station,” Creecy said .
Integrated Transport for an International Event
The match, which promises to attract over 62,000 spectators, will see fans able to board the Gautrain from any of its stations between Hatfield and Park Station or from OR Tambo International Airport to Park Station, making their way to Ellis Park via a quick three-minute train ride from the central business district. This initiative is a collaborative effort involving PRASA, Gautrain, the City of Johannesburg, and the Rugby Union at Emirates Park Stadium, with full support from the Gauteng Provincial Government .
Minister Creecy emphasized that this collaboration is a practical demonstration of how integrated public transport systems can enhance urban mobility, particularly during major events. The event also serves as a precursor to the planned expansion of the Gautrain network further north and south, a move aimed at deepening the integration of public transport across the province.
A Seamless and Safe Experience
To further ensure a seamless experience, PRASA and Gautrain have coordinated with e-hailing services, offering a designated drop-off zone at PRASA’s head office in Johannesburg. Additionally, safe and secure parking will be available at Park Station, allowing fans to transition smoothly between different modes of transport .
Barbara Creecy stressed the importance of collaboration not only between various transport modes but also between different levels of government. She stated, “Our government, across the national, provincial, and local spheres, must work together to design and build sustainable cities with integrated transport systems which will assist in growing our country’s economy and which is ultimately for the benefit of our citizens” .
Fan Excitement and Social Media Buzz
Social media platforms, especially X (formerly Twitter), have been abuzz with excitement, as rugby fans express their enthusiasm for the match and the integrated transport arrangements. The Department of Transport shared a video on X, showcasing Minister Creecy’s walkthrough of Johannesburg’s Park Station, where she highlighted the readiness of the transport system to accommodate the influx of fans .
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