Study shows Gautrain boosts the economy
MIDRAND - An economic impact study of the Gautrain, undertaken by auditing company KPMG, focused on how the entity was empowering communities, increasing business activity and fulfilling the transport provider's business objectives.
The study found that the overall government investment in Gautrain was R21.9 billion; 121 800 jobs had been created; and the transport service had contributed R20 billion total gross domestic product to the provincial economy.
Despite many customer complaints about the high cost of tickets, the report concluded that many users were pleased with the efficiency and the time saved travelling when using the service. The report also found that Gautrain improved residents’ quality of life by reducing traffic congestion.
Commenting on the report, MEC for Roads and Transport, Dr Ismail Vadi said, “The Gautrain is an efficient mode of transport and has turned out better than what was expected, and provided jobs for many.”
Gautrain Management Agency’s CEO Jack van der Merwe said, “The positive report could possibly assist in securing funding for the expansion of the Gautrain rail network.”
Meanwhile, high parking costs have been a nightmare for many Midrand Gautrain users. Recently the City of Joburg warned motorists who parked illegally outside the Midrand Gautrain Station that their vehicles would be impounded.
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