PRASA
By Mpho Moloi
For the first time in the last 10 years, the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has announced that it will implement fare adjustments across the Metrorail network from 01 August 2025, with single tickets rising by R2.50 and return tickets increasing by R5.50 to R6.00 depending on the distance.
PRASA Breaks Decade-Long Fare Freeze with Modest Increases
The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa has confirmed a long-awaited adjustment to Metrorail fares, ending a 10-year period where prices stayed the same since the last change in 2015. 0 Starting from 1 August 2025, commuters will see single tickets go up by R2.50, while return tickets will cost an extra R5.50 to R6.00, based on the zone or how far they travel. 6 This move comes as PRASA works to keep its services running smoothly in the face of rising costs.
“Fares have remained unchanged over the last 10 years, marking the first increase since 2015. Single tickets will increase by R2.50, while return tickets will see increases of R5.50 to R6.00, depending on the zone or distance travelled,” PRASA said on Wednesday. 0 The agency shared this update through its official channels, including social media, to give commuters time to prepare.
This is a big shift for many South Africans who rely on trains for daily trips to work or school. Over the years, PRASA has kept fares low to help people during tough times, like the economic slowdown and service breaks caused by theft and damage. 2 But now, with trains coming back online in places like Gauteng and the Western Cape, the agency says it needs more funds to cover everyday running costs.
Approval Process and Use of Extra Funds
The Department of Transport gave the green light for these changes after wide talks with different groups in 2023. 0 These chats included input from commuters, unions, and other interested parties to make sure the increases are fair and needed. 26 PRASA explained that the extra money will go straight into key areas to improve the service for everyone.
The additional revenue will fund critical operational needs, including energy and maintenance costs, as well as enhanced safety and security measures at stations and on trains. 0 Things like fixing tracks, adding more guards, and upgrading lights and cameras are on the list. 25 This is part of PRASA’s bigger plan to make trains safer and more reliable after years of problems.
The fare adjustment will contribute to the long-term sustainability of the country’s biggest passenger rail operator. 0 PRASA runs trains in busy areas like Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, and the Eastern Cape, carrying millions of people each year. 27 Keeping the system going strong means better trips for commuters and less strain on roads.
“Even with this fare adjustment, PRASA Rail fares remain the most affordable across all modes of transport. We are committed to providing affordable, safe and efficient commuter services,” PRASA Rail CEO Nwabisa Gqamane-Ntiyane said. 0 She pointed out that even after the rise, taking the train is still cheaper than buses or taxis for most routes. 25
Reintroduction of Weekly and Monthly Tickets Plus Ongoing Discounts
To soften the blow, PRASA Rail also announced the reintroduction of the much-anticipated weekly and monthly tickets. 0 These options, which were paused during service issues, are back and promise bigger savings for people who travel often. 26 For example, a monthly ticket could cut costs by a good chunk compared to buying daily ones. 27
These tickets offer deeper discounts and are expected to be popular among regular commuters. 0 If you ride the train every day for work, this could help keep your monthly budget in check. 25
PRASA Rail’s off-peak discounts remain in place, offering even more affordable fares for those travelling between 09:00 and 14:00, with fares discounted by 50% – 40% during this period. 0 This is great for students, shoppers, or anyone who can shift their trips to quieter times. 26 It encourages people to avoid rush hours, which helps ease crowding on trains.
How Commuters Can Get More Details
Commuters can find detailed information about the new fares, seasonal tickets, and station-specific details by visiting their nearest Metrorail station. 0 Staff there can explain how the changes affect your usual route. 25
Additional information is available through PRASA’s official social media channels, including @PRASA_Group, Metrorail Gauteng, Metrorail W.C, Metrorail KZN, and Metrorail E.C. 0 These pages often share updates, tips, and answers to common questions. 19
Mixed Reactions from Commuters and the Road Ahead
While PRASA stresses the need for these changes, commuters have shared mixed feelings online. 13 Some welcome the focus on fixing things, with one person saying it makes sense to improve services first and then adjust prices. 0 But others worry about the extra cost in tough economic times. 0
“The increase is too steep for ordinary folks,” one commuter posted on social media. 0 Another laughed it off, pointing to ongoing issues like broken long-distance trains. 0 “Haha we have not had train services for 10 years,” said a frustrated user, highlighting past disruptions that left many lines out of action. 0
PRASA has been on a recovery path since the hard hits during the COVID-19 lockdowns, when vandalism and theft wrecked much of the network. 17 Now, with more trains running and stations reopening, the agency hopes these funds will speed up fixes and bring back trust. 15 As South Africa looks to build a stronger public transport system, this step could help make trains a top choice again for affordable travel.
🔴 Central News Special Edition | Issue 112 🔴 Download the Latest Print and E-Edition | Headline: Ngwathe Local Municipality’s R2 Billion Budget Rejected as Unfunded by Free
State Treasury
Download Here:
Direct PDF Link:
https://centralnews.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Central-News-Issue-112.pdf
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube