Tender for 12 more Gautrain train sets to be issued in September

A request for proposals (RFP) will be released in September for the procurement of 12 additional train sets for the Gautrain rapid-rail operation, which is currently facing peak-period capacity constraints. The aim is to have the first new trains – which would be compatible with the network, but run independently of Bombardier Transportation's existing Electrostar trains – operational by March 2018. Gautrain Management Agency CEO Jack van der Merwe confirmed on Friday that the acquisition could cost between R2.5-billion and R4-billion and would be coupled with a 20-year maintenance contract, which could necessitate the expansion of a depot already being operated by the Bombela Concession Company (BCC), or the creation of an entirely new depot.