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Project to boost Gautrain fleet

Gauteng MEC for roads and transport Ismail Vadi announced yesterday that plans for the acquisition of 12 new trains for the Gautrain service are at an advanced stage.

Vadi's office said the new trains are being acquired to meet the increasing passenger demand, which is "exceeding realistic expectations, particularly during peak hours".

"The acquisition of 12 new trains over the next 24 months will help to alleviate congestion that Gautrain passengers experience in the morning and evening peaks," said Vadi.

He indicated that several proposals were received in March this year from potential train manufacturing companies.

"These were evaluated and I am pleased to announce that the three successful pre-qualified bidders for the new rolling stock project, namely Bombardier Transportation, CRRC E-Loco Supply and Egoli Rail Consortium," said Vadi.

In addition to the acquisition of more trains, the project entails the development of new depot facilities and the upgrading of the existing Gautrain signaling system.

Jack van der Merwe, chief executive of the Gautrain Management Agency, said the request for proposals (RFP) will be issued late next month.

"It is projected that the final milestone - the financial close - is to take place towards end 2017," said Van der Merwe.

Vadi said the new train project was expected to have a significant and positive socio-economic impact in the province as the provincial government will insist on at least 65% local content from the successful bidder in the manufacture of the trains.

The project is expected to sustain 10000 jobs in Gauteng and total government revenue is to increase by an estimated R542-million in nominal terms between 2019 and 2023.

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