By Mapabalo Borotho
- The Gautrain is entering a new operational phase as its long-standing agreement with Bombela comes to an end.
- Services will continue uninterrupted under a temporary arrangement while a new operator is finalised.
- The transition marks a key milestone, with a focus on maintaining reliability and preparing for future upgrades.
The Gautrain will begin a new operational phase on Saturday, 28 March, as its 19½-year concession agreement with the Bombela Concession Company (BCC) officially comes to an end.
Passengers have been assured that services will continue without interruption, with the system maintaining the high standards, reliability, and efficiency it has delivered since its inception.
The transition also marks a shift, with the Gautrain now falling under the Gauteng Provincial Government.
According to Albi Modise, the conclusion of the BCC brings to a close a significant chapter in one of South Africa’s largest and most successful Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects.
He added that the Gautrain will continue operating under the PPP model to ensure stability, continuity, and ongoing private-sector involvement.
A transitional period will begin on Saturday, during which the Bombela Operating Company (BOC) will continue managing the system under a contractual holdover arrangement for up to six months.
This period will allow for final negotiations with a preferred bidder, who is expected to take over operations, maintenance, refurbishment, upgrades, and modernisation of the Gautrain system for the next 15 years.
Once concluded, a new concessionaire will be officially appointed.
Chief Executive Officer of the Gautrain Management Agency, Tshepo Kgobe, described the moment as both the end of an era and a proud milestone for the rail system.
He emphasised that the priority during this transition is to ensure uninterrupted, world-class service while preparing for a smooth handover to the next operator.
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