Watch: Gauteng, Limpopo accelerate high-speed train plan

Gauteng and Limpopo have continued their engagements to pave the way to a high-speed train that promises commercial and economic benefits for both.

The high-speed train is anticipated to have stations in Pretoria, Hammanskraal, Bela-Bela, Mokopane, Polokwane, Louis Trichardt and Musina.

The engagements look to roll out a process to ensure the two provinces improve trade routes and lure motorists that frequent the N1 to Limpopo onto passenger rail transit.

The multi-province plan, which aims to link and introduce a high-speed rail was discussed on October 9, by Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba and her Gauteng counterpart Panyaza Lesufi at the Euphoria Golf Estate & Hydro in Mookgophong, Waterberg.

The two provincial heads convened a strategic meeting, which sought to advance the plans for the high-speed rail network.

They were able to iron out the implementation protocol, initiate the process for the nomination and appointment of a Joint Project Manager and proposals for a budget for the pre-feasibility study.

Both provinces further agreed to engage in joint consultations with the ministries of Finance, Transport, Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Trade, Industry and Competition, and the Presidency. This is to secure buy-in for the project while a Political Oversight Committee will also be appointed to ensure effective governance and oversight.

Lesufi said: “We are of the view that the economies of the two provinces are beginning to merge, and we must find ways of harnessing this growth. This is not a vision of one province; it is a joint vision that is driven from all angles. Together, we can create a seamless transport network that will benefit our citizens and businesses alike.”

The Gauteng-Limpopo Rail Link Project is set to be incorporated into the Medium-Term Development Plan, marking a crucial step toward enhancing inter-provincial connectivity and economic collaboration.

The high-speed train promises substantial commercial and economic benefits, including reduced travel times, improved trade routes and accelerated regional development.

It will position both Limpopo and Gauteng as pivotal economic hubs, facilitating seamless travel for business, commuters and tourists. By making travel between cities more efficient and accessible, this project is expected to attract investment, open new markets and support the growth of businesses across various sectors.

Ramathuba said the meeting was a pivotal moment for her province on job creation and the economy.

“The realisation of this project will not only create jobs but will transform our cities with high-speed rail stations that will become dynamic hubs of economic activity, stimulating urban development and increasing property values. We are committed to making this vision a reality for the benefit of all our people.”

The high-speed train engagement is on the back of Lesufi announcing his province’s five-year plan during the State of Province Address on August 15.

Gauteng planned to complete rail projects to connect the Tshwane rail network to other provinces.

The plans, of which the construction deadlines are still to be announced, seek to accelerate job opportunities in the province while improving economic growth and modernising rail infrastructure.

Lesufi remarked that several investment projects worth billions were in the pipeline for Gauteng to spur economic growth.

“Together with our Limpopo counterparts, we are now ready to start the process to build the Limpopo/Gauteng speed train.”

He said the feasibility study was nearing completion and the speed train would create over 18 000 jobs during construction.

“Gauteng and Limpopo are coming together so people of Gauteng can go to Limpopo easily using a speed train.”