South Africa Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula on Friday said the country would resume the long-distance train service between cities after a nine-month suspension due to COVID-19.
“Today we are launching the resumption of the Mainline Passenger Services which operates Shosholoza Meyl and Premier Classe after a break of 9 months.
“This means that Shosholoza Meyl will be operating on all its regular routes during this festive season.
READ ALSO :List Of Affordable Packages For Your Travel Plans This Christmas
“We are happy with the resumption of the trains. Passenger rail, as the cheapest mode of transport, plays an important role in providing mobility to many of our people who travel from far-flung rural areas to urban centres for work or purchase wares to sustain their livelihoods.’’
Mbalula told media, who accompanied him to inspect the trains’ readiness, that he is happy about the health protocols.
READ ALSO :Burkina Faso Defeated Candidates Congratulate President-Elect Kabore
He said passengers would observe social distance and would be expected to wear masks all the time, while in the trains.