Despite this decline, authorities are moving forward with a R120 billion ($6.5 billion) expansion, aiming to extend services to western Johannesburg, Randburg, and eventually Limpopo province.

Gauteng Member of the Executive Council for Finance and Economic Development, Lebogang Maile, acknowledged the drop in ridership, calling it a wake-up call. However, the AA argues that the decline signals deeper issues with the rail system’s sustainability and its ability to meet the needs of most commuters.

AA Spokesperson Eleanor Mavimbela noted that while discussions around the expansion had been ongoing for years, proceeding with the project despite mounting financial challenges was unexpected. “The Gautrain has been losing passengers, and the province already heavily subsidises the service. It is concerning that such a large investment is being made in a system that serves a small fraction of commuters instead of prioritising more inclusive transport solutions,” she said.

The government maintains that the expansion will create 125 000 jobs, but the AA believes that true, sustainable employment should come from investments that benefit a broader segment of the population. The association has called for a shift in focus towards initiatives that improve road infrastructure, upgrade taxis and buses, and enhance public transport affordability.

Mavimbela added that transport planning should prioritise solutions that have the greatest impact on the majority of South Africans, rather than concentrating resources on a single high-cost rail project. The AA has urged authorities to reassess their approach and direct funding towards initiatives that address the country’s most pressing transport challenges.

--ChannelAfrica--