Metrorail's new fleet unveiled
The trains are set to replace the current fleet, which has been in operation for over 50 years, in October.
JOHANNESBURG - A new fleet of Metrorail trains has been unveiled at Pretoria station, with delegates taken on board a train as a test run.
The trains are set to be launched in October replacing the current fleet which has been in operation for more than 50 years.
The new fleet of trains will see passenger safety being prioritised, with the trains fitted with smoke detectors, CCTV cameras and emergency communication systems.
#prasa New trains are fitted with smoke detectors, CCTV cameras and electronic doors which prohibit train surfing.KG pic.twitter.com/v5RmG5I2Cq
- EWN Reporter (@ewnreporter) May 24, 2016
Six hundred trains have been budgeted for, 20 from a Brazilian supplier, while the other 580 will be manufactured locally in Ekurhuleni.
The new trains are part of government's R59 billion investment into the development of a integrated public transport system for the country.
#prasa Some commuters given the opportunity to be the first upon the new trains.KG pic.twitter.com/8lZAGhCm4e
— EWN Reporter (@ewnreporter) May 24, 2016
The Minister of Transport Dipuo Peters and Deputy Mayor of Tshwane Subesh Pillay unveiled the new fleet of trains.