Staff Writer
The Limpopo and Gauteng Provincial Governments are making strides towards building a high-speed rail network linking the two provinces.
On Wednesday, Premiers Dr Phophi Ramathuba and Panyaza Lesufi convened a strategic meeting in Waterberg to discuss the project’s framework.
During the meeting, the two provinces reached key agreements, including developing an implementation protocol to nominate and appoint a joint project manager, establish a cost-sharing mechanism, and propose a budget for the feasibility study.
Additionally, both provincial governments committed to joint consultations with the Ministries of Finance, Transport, Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), Trade, Industry, and Competition, as well as the Presidency, to secure national support for the project.
A political oversight committee will also be appointed to ensure effective governance and oversight of the initiative.
Premier Lesufi highlighted the importance of collaboration: “We believe that the economies of the two provinces are beginning to merge, and we must find ways of harnessing this growth. This is not a vision of one province but a joint vision driven from all angles. Together, we can create a seamless transport network that will benefit our citizens and businesses alike.”
The Gauteng-Limpopo Rail Link Project is set to be incorporated into the Medium-Term Development Plan, marking a crucial step toward enhancing inter-provincial connectivity and economic collaboration.
The high-speed train promises substantial commercial and economic benefits, including reduced travel times, improved trade routes, and accelerated regional development.
It will position both Limpopo and Gauteng as pivotal economic hubs, facilitating seamless travel for businesses, commuters, and tourists.
This project aims to make travel between cities more efficient and accessible, which is expected to attract investment, open new markets, and support the growth of businesses across various sectors.
Limpopo Premier Ramathuba said the meeting reached a consensus on fundamental principles and practical steps.
“The realisation of this project will create jobs and transform our cities with high-speed rail stations that will become dynamic hubs of economic activity, stimulating urban development and increasing property values.
“We are committed to making this vision a reality for the benefit of all our people.”
As a way forward, the project managers will engage with key stakeholders, including traditional leaders, the taxi industry, and other critical groups, ensuring the project remains people-centred.
Members of the Executive Council, Directors General, Heads of Departments, Chief Executive Officers, and other senior officials from both provinces participated in the meeting, which was dedicated to successfully implementing this transformative initiative.
SOURCED FROM GPG WEBSITE.
