Devolving railways way to go

Municipalities know the needs of communities, understand local terrain.

- Eric Naki

OUTCOME: EXPERTS SAY MOVE WILL BRING SA IN LINE WITH INTERNATIONAL PRACTICE

Devolving the operation of railways to local authorities is a good idea that will bring South Africa in line with international practice, where major cities control local railways, experts say.

Zenoyise John, a political commentator and communications practitioner, said placing the railways control in the hands of municipalities could be done with the hope that local authorities may be more capable of addressing the specific needs of their communities, having a better understanding of the local terrain, traffic patt erns and commuter needs.

“This decentralization of responsibilities could potentially lead to improved maintenance and overall management of the railway system.

“However, she cautioned about the local authorities’ capacity in handling the task and suggested that there might be a need to hold them accountable to deliver on the expectations.

“There needs to be a comprehensive assessment of the potential benefits and risks involved in such a move before any decision is made,” John said.