Metrorail: 293 cases of vandalism key cause in train delays
The DA in the Western Cape is concerned about the impact of vandalism on the rail network in the province.
The Regional Manager for Metrorail in the Western Cape, Richard Walker, briefed the Standing Committee on Transport and Public Works in the Western Cape Provincial Parliament today, regarding the train delays. It was revealed that there were 293 registered instances of vandalism and theft between March and December of 2015.
One case of vandalism, which occurred in November 2015, in Khayelitsha / Nolungile 7156, caused 30 706 minutes of delay. This instance also caused:
• 587 train cancellations;
• 1 323 train delays; and
• R 342 991.42 in repair costs.
Vandalism contributes to the decline of trainset availability. There are 88 train sets required to service the rail transporting needs in the province but there are 81 trains operational. This following incidents of vandalism in October / November 2015.
The almost 500 km open rail system is vulnerable to acts of vandalism and destruction. The resultant cancellation and suspension of train services have a negative impact of reaching opportunities.
Although Metrorail does its best to address train delays, we need a shift in commuter behaviour. Train users must take ownership of making their trains safer and report those responsible for vandalism.
In order for members of our society to take advantage of opportunities that are available, they must have access to those opportunities. As such, a reliable and safe public transport is integral. We each have a role to play in delivering that mandate and must take a holistic approach to the delivery of reliable transport.
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