The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa), through its subsidiary Intersite, has officially opened the new Isipingo Mall in KwaZulu-Natal. This launch forms a key part of a triple unveiling that also included Prasa’s new Renewable Energy Project and the rollout of its 300th modern train set, named Isitimela Sabantu (The People’s Train)....Click to Read More >>➤

The event, attended by Transport Minister Barbara Creecy, signals a significant push by the government to revitalize passenger rail. This initiative aims to create a reliable, efficient, and inclusive transport system that fuels economic growth, generates employment, and uplifts local communities.

Isipingo Mall: A Community Hub on the Rails

Strategically located within the same building as Prasa’s Isipingo Train Station, the new Isipingo Mall is a prime example of the agency leveraging its property portfolio. Minister Creecy emphasized that rebuilding the rail network goes hand-in-hand with rebuilding the communities it serves.

She described the Isipingo Mall as a shining example of how Prasa’s assets can drive urban renewal and create vibrant economic hubs for residents. This development aligns with Prasa’s legislative mandate to generate income by exploiting its real estate and property holdings.

The modern retail centre spans 7,259 square meters of lettable space. It will host 45 shops, a food court, banking facilities, and provide 304 parking bays. The design serves both daily commuters and the broader community, creating a integrated transit and retail experience.

Job Creation and Economic Stimulus

A core government mandate is job creation, and the Isipingo Mall project has delivered on this front. Minister Creecy confirmed that the construction phase alone created approximately 271 jobs. This provided vital income and skills training for local artisans, labourers, and contractors.

The project stimulated local economic activity at a critical time. Now operational, the mall is set to provide 150 permanent positions in retail, facilities management, and community services. This transition from construction to operational jobs builds a foundation for sustainable livelihoods in the eThekwini region.

Prasa also views the Isipingo Mall as a critical revenue stream. The income generated supports the financial sustainability of the wider rail network. Minister Creecy stated that developments like this prove public infrastructure can be financially viable, socially impactful, and community-oriented simultaneously.

Prasa Powers Up with Renewable Energy Project

In a major step toward energy independence, Minister Creecy also launched Prasa’s Renewable Energy Project. This initiative is designed to reduce the agency’s heavy dependence on the national Eskom grid.

The project will improve operational reliability during power disruptions and significantly lower the carbon footprint of rail operations. The rollout includes installing solar power systems at key Prasa stations and facilities across the network.

Minister Creecy announced that Prasa will continue to expand its renewable energy projects in the coming months. This investment supports South Africa’s national commitment to reduce emissions. It also leads to cleaner, safer, and more cost-effective transport services for passengers.

A Milestone 300th Train Rolls Out

The third major announcement was the unveiling of train set 300, the Isitimela Sabantu. This modern train was locally manufactured at the Gibela plant in Ekurhuleni. Reaching this number marks the halfway point toward the goal of producing 600 new trains.

Minister Creecy hailed this as a major achievement for the Rail Modernisation Programme. This programme is a collaboration between Prasa and the Department of Transport. It supports black industrialists and stimulates South Africa’s advanced manufacturing sector.

The programme has already created thousands of jobs, with a focus on employing youth and women. Minister Creecy noted that every train leaving the Gibela plant in Nigel carries the skills, livelihoods, and aspirations of the South Africans who built it.

This triple launch of the Isipingo Mall, a renewable energy initiative, and ...Click to Read More >>➤