Joint site inspections of a number of hot spots along the Cape Flats railway line were conducted between representatives of the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) and two local councillors, Zahid Badroodien and Rashid Adams on Wednesday 1 February.
Cyril Bauer from Prasa and other officials attended the inspection.
The visit was part of engagements to assess the extent of the work required to make the stations, subways and railway safe for all commuters.
The railway line has been open for some time now but the number of trains running is limited and dependent on demand.
“The issue we are trying to address is the safety and cleanliness of the facilities at Athlone, Lansdowne and nearby train stations on the Cape Flats line. Since the reopening of the Cape Flats line last year, as a test drive, commuters and neighbouring residents complained about the state of the stations and they fear for their safety in using the subway,” says Badroodien.
“Particular focus was placed on Lansdowne Station subway, where gates were proposed in order to close the subway. Also, the surface crossing in Newton Road where we were joined by Ashiek Manie, principal of Al-Azhar High School in Newton Road, who requested the walkway be closed for the safety of his learners and to prevent dumping.
“The Athlone train station and subway also were noted for urgent intervention. Prasa will now do an internal engagement which will be followed up with another meeting with the City in order to discuss deliverables,” says Badroodien.
