CAPE TOWN – The Western Cape government and the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) are set to sign a memorandum of understanding to improve transport integration at the Kapteinsklip corridor in Mitchells Plain.
The agreement, which will come into effect in the 2026/27 financial year, aims to formalise the Park and Ride facility on the Rocklands side and enhance connectivity between different transport modes at the station.
According to a written parliamentary reply, the memorandum will address integration between rail, buses, mini-bus taxis and e-hailing services within the station precinct. The medium to long-term goal is to convert Kapteinsklip into a fully-fledged public transport interchange.
The provincial Mobility Department has worked with Prasa over the past two financial years to accelerate recovery efforts, particularly on the Central Line, which was affected by vandalism and unlawful occupation.
Prof. Nomafrench Mbombo, DA Western Cape spokesperson on Mobility, said the agreement was “a critical step towards making public transport the first choice for residents of Mitchells Plain and surrounding areas”.
“Commuters need frequent, reliable and safe train services now. That is why we will continue to push for the devolution of rail powers so that competent authorities can fix this crisis without delay,” she said.
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Despite ongoing restoration work, including the reopening of the Kapteinsklip railway line, the provincial rail network is not yet operating at previous levels. Trains continue to experience delays and frequency issues.
The DA in the Western Cape said it would invite Prasa, the City of Cape Town and the provincial Mobility Department to brief the Standing Committee on Mobility on progress and planned projects.
Rail services in the Western Cape have struggled in recent years, with vandalism and infrastructure damage affecting operations. The province has called for the devolution of rail powers to provincial and local authorities.
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