The Gautrain, a product of the Gauteng provincial government and the Bombela consortium, is a rapid-rail public transport system linking the growing cities of the province of Gauteng. Reaching speeds of 160km/h and powered by the Bombardier Electrostar, each train consists of four cars, gliding rapidly between gleaming new stations. By mid-2011, the complete system will extend from Johannesburg’s Park Station in the south, to Pretoria’s Hatfield Station in the North, and Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport in the East, and Sandton Station in the West.
The Gautrain was ushered in one month before the FIFA 2010 World Cup in June, and the euphoria that greeted the Gautrain represented both its ability to relieve growing traffic congestion between the principle cities of Johannesburg and Tshwane, as well as symbolised an achievement that was seen by many as a key to a successful World Cup.
The Gautrain has also inadvertently begun to restructure Gauteng’s urban fabric. It has contributed to cities that value community, public space and open engagements, and has given cities a sense of self-identity. Principally, though, it has induced in citizens a sense of pride in their cities – a notable achievement in a province that is so often derided for its impenetrable and impersonal image.