Investigating the effects of challenges faced by the railway network on social, economy and developing railway recovery strategies.

Abstract

The passenger rail system in South Africa's is exposed to a myriad of challenges that include theft of infrastructure, vandalism, and aging infrastructure. The study examines railway network challenges of state-owned enterprises in the City of Cape Town central line recovery experienced by the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) in rehabilitating the Cape Town Central Line within the Western Cape Province. A qualitative research approach was employed to collect data through indepth interviews with 16 key participants to solicit inputs and perceptions from different stakeholders, including commuters, government representatives, community leaders, and PRASA personnel. Three key findings were revealed, firstly, common factors such as inadequate security measures, informal settlements along railway reserves posed security threats, governance problems, and financial limitations. These factors contributed to frequent service interruptions, decreased safety, and a declining preference and commuter experience. Secondly, overcoming these challenges required financial diversification through public-private partnerships, community involvement, improved security, and governance reforms. Thirdly, legal and regulatory frameworks, such as the National Rail Policy and the National Development Plan (NDP), supported PRASA’s recovery goals. Interagency cooperation, financial responsibility, and community involvement were deemed necessary to utilize these frameworks effectively to ensure sustainable solutions. The study hopes to contribute to how PRASA could increase its investments in service dependability, boost commuter satisfaction, and support South Africa's broader public transport objectives through making significant improvements in their governance and infrastructure restorations. The study will inform policymakers, transportation authorities, and other stakeholders within PRASA and government counterparts working to build robust and equitable public transportation network.