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The South African
7 days ago
- Business
- The South African
PRASA hikes Metrorail ticket prices: Here's how much MORE you'll pay
The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has announced that it will adjust Metrorail ticket prices for the first time in 10 years, with the changes set to take effect on 1 August 2025. PRASA said the decision to raise fares was taken after comprehensive stakeholder consultations held back in 2023 and has received the green light from the Department of Transport. 'Fares have remained unchanged since 2015. This is the first adjustment in a decade,' PRASA noted. Under the new pricing structure: Single tickets will increase by R2.50 will increase by Return tickets will rise by between R5.50 to R6.00, depending on the distance and zone The revenue generated from the fare hike will go toward essential operational costs, including energy bills, rail maintenance, and improved safety and security at stations and on board trains. 'Even with this fare adjustment, PRASA Rail fares remain the most affordable across all modes of public transport,' said PRASA Rail CEO Nwabisa Gqamane-Ntiyane. 'We are committed to providing affordable, safe, and efficient commuter services.' Return of weekly and monthly tickets PRASA Rail also announced the reintroduction of weekly and monthly tickets, offering significant savings for regular commuters. Off-peak discounts still apply Passengers travelling between 09:00 and 14:00 will continue to benefit from 40% to 50% discounts during off-peak hours. PRASA has long faced criticism for service disruptions, infrastructure decay, and security concerns. This fare increase is part of its long-term strategy to restore financial sustainability and improve service quality on South Africa's most critical commuter rail network. Despite the fare hike, PRASA insists that rail remains the most economical transport option for millions of working-class South Africans who rely on it daily. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The Citizen
17-07-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
First train fare increase in a decade: Here is how much it will cost you to travel across South Africa
School children wearing full uniform when travelling on the train will receive a 50% discount on all single and return trips. For the first time in ten years, the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) has announced it will implement fare adjustments across the Metrorail network from 1 August. Children travelling wearing a school uniform will still receive a discount. Prasa said on Wednesday that single tickets will increase by R2.50, while return tickets will see increases of R5.50 to R6.00, depending on the zone or distance travelled. 'The Department of Transport has approved the fare adjustment following comprehensive stakeholder consultations conducted in 2023.' ALSO READ: Restoring SA's rails: Can Prasa deliver by 2027? Money to fund train maintenance costs Prasa Rail CEO Nwabisa Gqamane-Ntiyane said the revenue made from the increase will fund operational needs, which include energy and maintenance costs. Safety and security measures at the stations and trains will also receive attention from the additional revenue. 'The fare adjustment will contribute to the long-term sustainability of the country's biggest passenger rail operator.' Areas to get the train She added that even with the increase, Prasa Rail fares remain the most affordable across all modes of transport. Metrorail in Gauteng primarily serves Johannesburg, Pretoria, and the surrounding areas, including Germiston, Soweto, and the Vaal Triangle. ALSO READ: R75bn shortfall forces focus on bloated SOEs and failed bailouts It connects these areas through a network of routes extending from three main hubs: Park Station in Johannesburg, Germiston Station, and Pretoria Station. Key stations are Park Station in Johannesburg, Germiston Station in Germiston and Pretoria Station in Pretoria. Discounts School children wearing full uniform when travelling on the train will receive a 50% discount on all single and return trips. Additionally, Prasa Rail has announced the reintroduction of weekly and monthly tickets. 'These tickets offer deeper discounts and are expected to be popular among regular commuters. 'Prasa Rail's off-peak discounts remain in place, offering even more affordable fares for those travelling between 9amand 2pm, with fares discounted by 50% – 40% during this period.' NOW READ: Gautrain is offering 50% discount to these eligible passengers
