Xaba said the high-speed rail project – which would connect Durban with other major cities, including Polokwane, Musina, Pretoria, and Mbombela – could transform regional economies and promote tourism.
The Mayor’s comments were in response to Transport Minister Barbara Creecy launching a nationwide Request for Information (RFI) process last week.
Her RFI invited the private sector to submit ideas and investment models to modernise the country’s passenger rail system.
Central to this initiative is a proposal to “test the water” for a 300km/h high-speed rail link between Johannesburg and Durban.
Xaba said he has long been in talks with Minister Creecy, PRASA, and Transnet on strategic transport projects. These include the proposed Durban to Johannesburg high-speed train, port efficiency improvements, and general rail infrastructure upgrades.
“I must indicate that during these engagements I have been constantly emphasising to the Minister and her team the importance of resuscitating the speed train project,” Xaba explained.
He believes a high-speed rail link could be a game-changer for KwaZulu-Natal’s economy. It could also make the idea of living in Durban and commuting to Joburg a realistic prospect.
Joburg to Durban in two hours
The drive between the two metros currently takes about six hours. A bullet train could shave travel time down to two hours.
“As a city, we welcome this move as it will boost the economy of Durban, especially the tourism sector,” Xaba explained.
“Upon completion, thousands of people from Gauteng will be descending on Durban on a weekly basis for business and tourism.”
The mayor also applauded government’s openness to private-sector participation, saying that public–private partnerships would be key to delivering the multibillion-rand infrastructure required.
Improving port logistics
Alongside the rail initiative, Durban continues to focus on improving port operations – another vital link between KZN and the rest of the country.
Transnet recently announced a R1 billion investment in four new ship-to-shore cranes to boost capacity at the Durban Container Terminal.
“This investment is crucial in positioning Durban as a globally competitive port city,” Xaba added. “We are working closely with Transnet on multiple projects to improve port efficiency.”
