The feasibility study to build a high-speed train connecting KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng is underway, marking significant strides in the implementation of this project.
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Plans for a high-speed rail link connecting KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng have progressed to the feasibility phase, signalling tangible movement on the long-anticipated infrastructure project, The Mercury has reported.
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli confirmed that the provincial government will shortly meet with the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) to obtain clarity on the status of the study and determine the next steps.
Ntuli said previous discussions with national government departments indicated that feasibility assessments were under way. However, the province is now seeking detailed feedback on how far the process has advanced.
“We require certainty on the current position of the feasibility study,” Ntuli said. “Our engagement with PRASA is aimed at establishing precisely where the project stands.”
If implemented, the high-speed rail corridor is expected to cut travel time between Durban and Johannesburg by nearly three hours, dramatically improving connectivity between the two economic hubs.
President Cyril Ramaphosa reiterated government’s commitment to high-speed rail during his recent State of the Nation Address. He said preparatory work continues on strategic routes, including eThekwini to Johannesburg and Johannesburg to Musina.
Ramaphosa revealed that about 30 companies responded to a Request for Information issued last year, expressing interest in participating in the development of high-speed rail corridors. Government is preparing to move to the next phase by issuing a formal Request for Proposals.
He described the initiative as a step towards modernising South Africa’s long-distance rail network and strengthening the country’s competitiveness in a shifting global economy.
Durban Mayor Cyril Xaba welcomed the progress, saying the project remains on track and could significantly enhance travel efficiency between Durban and Johannesburg.
Xaba praised Transport Minister Barbara Creecy for issuing a Request for Information covering regional speed trains linking Durban, Johannesburg, Polokwane, Musina, Pretoria and Mbombela.
The mayor said he has maintained ongoing discussions with Creecy, PRASA and Transnet regarding the high-speed rail initiative, as well as broader efforts to improve port performance and rail infrastructure.
According to Xaba, the project could serve as a major economic stimulus for Durban, particularly within the tourism sector. Faster rail connections would allow more frequent travel between Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal.
City officials believe the reduced travel time could encourage weekend tourism and same-day business trips, potentially drawing thousands of visitors to Durban on a regular basis once the rail link becomes operational.
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