Cable thieves derail Gautrain once again

The R25-billion Gautrain has hit a snag for the second time in as many weeks, raising questions about the service's reliability.

Yesterday, Bombela Concession, the company contracted to build and operate the rapid rail system, suspended the train's services between Centurion and Hatfield for the second time due to cable theft.

The Rosebank-Sandton route was also temporarily suspended because of "technical issues".

Last week the service between Centurion and Hatfield was suspended due to cable theft.

Bombela spokesman Errol Braithwaite said: "This incident took place in a different location to that which affected train services last week, but unfortunately the same stations were affected.

"As before, an emergency bus service was implemented between Hatfield, Pretoria and Centurion stations to transport passengers affected by the incident. Full train services were restored to these stations by 2pm."

The DA expressed grave concerns about the Gautrain again suspending its services.

Neil Campbell, DA Gauteng roads and transport spokesman and member of the provincial legislature, said the excuse that cable theft was to blame rang hollow.

"Assurances were given that cables would be buried under concrete, but it now seems these thefts were above ground and that not all cables are 'thief-proof'."

Campbell urged Bombela to improve its security.

"[Otherwise] the Gautrain will become nothing more than an exceedingly expensive white elephant. We deserve a reliable service after spending so much taxpayers' money [on it]. "