Grin

MZANSI – In what was hailed as the grand return of the Shosholoza Meyl, a flagship initiative by the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa), the “railway renaissance” has hit a minor snag – or shall we say, a major cable theft.

Passengers aboard the resuscitated long-distance train service from Johannesburg to Cape Town were treated to an unexpected detour as cable thieves left the train hanging on its tracks. In a move that could only be described as a theatrical interpretation of Murphy’s Law, the overhead wires vanished faster than an ANC manifesto promise.

One disgruntled passenger, taking to the virtual stage on X (formerly known as Twitter), announced, “It has ended in tears. After Wellington, there’s been cable theft, so our journey ends there. We’ll be taking a bus all the way to Cape Town from there.”

Prasa, ever the optimist, assured the public that they are engaging in high-level talks on “how to effectively deal with the cable theft.” Rumours circulate that the talks may involve hiring neighbourhood watchdogs or placing “Caution: Wires May Disappear” signs along the route.

In the face of challenges, including a diesel locomotive shortage and a train infrastructure that has seen better days, Prasa remains committed to passenger safety. In a bold move, the agency has implemented “enhanced safety and security protocols,” which may or may not involve attaching loud bells to the remaining wires.

Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema didn’t miss the chance to weigh in, labelling the whole affair as “a flop, PR gone wrong.” In response, Prasa has reportedly considered renaming the service to “Shosholoza Maybe.”

Despite the setbacks, Prasa is determined to deliver a “reliable, safe, comfortable long-distance train experience,” even if that means occasionally substituting trains with scenic bus tours. After all, who needs a speedy train when you can embark on an unplanned road trip adventure, complete with cable capers and diesel locomotive dramas?

As the Shosholoza Meyl’s “Railway Renaissance” continues its journey, passengers are encouraged to share their experiences, concerns, and suggestions, presumably using the hashtag #TrainHeistDetour. All aboard the Prasa Express – where every trip is an unexpected surprise!

Read more on The Citizen.