By Phenyo Selinda
In its ongoing efforts to secure infrastructure and return to pre-COVID-19 levels of operation, the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has taken substantial strides in embracing cutting-edge technology. With a vision to serve 600 million passengers annually, PRASA’s efforts aim to not only restore its service but also protect it from future disruptions caused by theft, vandalism, and operational inefficiencies.
Addressing the Smart Mobility Africa Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa’s Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, highlighted the digital transformation underway at PRASA. One key initiative involves a partnership with Huawei to implement an intelligent e-guarding perimeter system. This system uses artificial intelligence (AI) to monitor and secure critical railway infrastructure. The AI-driven system is equipped with seismic activity trackers, designed to detect any attempts at cable theft or unauthorized digging near PRASA’s depots. This proactive approach ensures that any security breaches are flagged immediately, allowing for swift responses before significant damage occurs.
Creecy further emphasized that the smart solutions are not limited to security. Thirty-one of PRASA’s 40 priority rail lines have returned to service following extensive periods of inactivity due to theft and vandalism. The re-signalling of these lines is an ongoing project, crucial for ensuring that train services are reliable, timely, and able to meet commuter demands. According to Creecy, these digital upgrades play a central role in PRASA’s efforts to reclaim its position as a key player in South Africa’s public transport sector.
Beyond securing infrastructure, PRASA is taking steps toward fully integrating smart systems across its operations. This aligns with a broader national strategy to leverage technology for economic growth and improved public services. From e-permitting systems for transport operators to digitizing driver’s license testing, Creecy underscored how South Africa is exploring new avenues to enhance service delivery and efficiency.
Another key entity, Transnet, has embraced similar innovations with its integrated Port Management System (IPMS), which streamlines freight logistics and allows for real-time monitoring of operational processes. Such technological adoptions demonstrate South Africa’s growing commitment to leveraging smart systems to improve service delivery and bolster economic performance  .
As PRASA’s recovery continues, the agency remains focused on modernizing its operations to ensure that infrastructure theft and vandalism are issues of the past, positioning itself as a cornerstone of smart mobility in South Africa.
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