After operations on the Central Line were halted since 2019, train services resumed on Monday February 23. Pictured a train at the Lentegeur Metrorail Station.
Image: Marsha Bothma
After operations on the Central Line were halted since 2019, train services resumed on Monday, February 23.
Michael Jacobs, chairperson of the Mitchell’s Plain United Residents Association (MURA), said the reopening of the Mitchell’s Plain Line is long overdue, (“Athlone imbizo highlights crime, parole, and social service failures” Plainsman February 13 and "Central line to be up and running by the end of June, says Prasa" Athlone News April 17, 2025).
“We welcome the reopening as it restores a critical transport service for working-class communities,” he said. “However, much work still needs to be done to protect the rail infrastructure. Fencing along the railway tracks must become a priority to prevent vandalism and illegal crossings.”
Mareldia Moller, a City of Cape Town community ambassador for safety and security, said she has been stationed at the site for four years and observed construction work over the past year.
Image: Marsha Bothma
He also urged authorities to address ongoing squatting at the entrance to Lentegeur station.
“This presents both a safety risk to commuters and an ongoing health risk. If this is not addressed, it undermines the safety gains made through restoring the service,” he said.
When the Plainsman visited the Lentegeur Metrorail Station on Monday, commuters, workers, and traders shared their views on the return of the trains and what it means for the community.
Lentegeur resident Khashiefa Jacobs said the return of trains will ease the financial burden on commuters.
“Transport fees are expensive with buses and taxis,” she said. “The train will help with travel time and costs. Not having trains running was a big loss. Many people are happy because they used the trains before.”
Robyn Tango, a trader at Lentegeur CBD, welcomed the return of train services. “I used to use the train, and I am happy seeing people coming through here again,” she said. She also said more visible security is needed.
Khashiefa Jacobs, a Lentegeur resident, said the return of trains will ease the financial burden on commuters.
Image: Marsha Bothma
Mareldia Moller, a City of Cape Town community ambassador for safety and security, said she has been stationed at the site for four years and observed construction work over the past year.
“Other modes of transport are expensive, and people prefer the train,” she said. “Many people come from Eastridge, Beacon Valley, Klein Mecca, and other areas. They cross the track,s and we walk with them over the bridge where robberies happen. This is one of the best things that could happen for the community. It is not 100 percent yet, but this is what people need,” said Ms Moller.
A PRASA employee who did not want to be named said train tickets cost R12 for a single trip to Cape Town, R70 per week, and R220 per month. Off-peak fares between 9.30am and 2.30pm drop to R7.
Tharwa Doutie, a Lentegeur resident and commuter, said: "We are happy it is up and running. This will also help with pupil transport."
Patricia Moses, a cleaner at Lentegeur station, said she tested the train for the first time on Monday and was impressed. “The blue trains are nice and clean. They have air conditioning and cameras. Compared to the yellow trains, the blue trains are better."
Tharwa Doutie, a Lentegeur resident and commuter, said: "We are happy it is up and running, this will also help with pupil transport."
Image: Marsha Bothma
Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) spokesperson Zinobulali Mihi confirmed the Kapteinsklip line reopened on Monday, February 23, marking a "significant milestone in the phased restoration of train services."
She said delays beyond the initially communicated November 2025 timeline were due to vandalism, theft of critical rail components, and extensive repairs to signalling, overhead traction equipment, and stations. Security stabilisation along the corridor also had to be strengthened before services could safely resume.
“The region has implemented enhanced safety and security interventions along the Central Line, including increased security deployment, coordination with law enforcement agencies, access control at stations, and improved surveillance measures,” she said.
Ms Mihi said infrastructure inspections and safety certifications are ongoing to ensure safe operations. The restored service will initially operate on a phased timetable, with capacity gradually increased as operational conditions stabilise.
Rail services will remain affordable in line with PRASA’s commitment to providing accessible public transport, and acknowledge the inconvenience caused by the prolonged suspension. “Restoring safe, reliable, and sustainable rail services remains a priority, and we appreciate the patience shown by communities along the Central Line,” she said.
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