Gauteng and Limpopo governments in talks on construction of a railway network linking the two provinces.
Gauteng Premier Panyasa Lesufi, on Wednesday, 26 April 2023, met with Limpopo Premier Chupu Stanley Mathabatha, to further discuss the process of linking the two provinces through a new, faster, and more efficient rail network.
The meeting follows the commitment made by Premier Lesufi in his maiden State of the Province Address in February, to start the process of linking the two provinces.
“Once fully operational, the Limpopo-to-Gauteng rail link will alleviate the traffic congestion between the two provinces, especially during Easter and Festive holidays. The project will also stimulate economic growth,” said Premier Lesufi.
The rail network will transport commodities for regional and domestic markets as well as people. A joint technical team comprising senior officials from the two provincial governments, and the Gautrain Management Agency will meet regularly to discuss the modalities of the project. Financial institutions have already shown interest in funding the project.
“I wish to thank the Premier of Gauteng for this initiative. As Limpopo, we have been trying to implement this project since 2014 and unfortunately we were met with financial challenges. I think with the kind of enthusiasm that the Premier is bringing into the project, finally it will kickoff the ground”, said Premier Mathabatha.
