JOHANNESBURG - A R1-billion train factory has been opened in Nigel, Gauteng.
“This factory is not only about building trains; it is also about advancing the industrialisation of our economy. As part of our drive to achieve sustainable economic growth and significantly expand employment, we have identified the growth of our manufacturing base as a key priority,” said President Cyril Ramaphosa during the launch of the plant.
The complex will manufacture, assemble, test and deliver 580 new commuter trains.
READ: Prasa commits to recovery of its poor rail services
Prasa spokesperson Nana Zenani said it's part of government's plan to bring in jobs and skills.
The plant is scheduled to deliver two new trains by December, a further nine trains by March 2019 and an estimated total of 56 trains over the next two years.
- Additional reporting ANA
The Railway Safety Regulator has issued the Passenger Rail Agency with a temporary safety permit. Prasa's license expired on Tuesday. Prasa's Khanyisile Kweyama unpacks this story for us.
