TRL3705
Assignment 2
SEMESTER 2 2023
, 1.1 Assignment questions
Intermodal activity and modal
shifts
In Learning Unit 1 - 4 we discussed how a lack of intermodal facilities is part of the
reason for the reduction in rail’s market share in the freight market, and the importance
of these facilities for the upliftment of rail in South Africa (section 1.4.2). Consider the
Gautrain service, how it links rail to bus and rail to air (via the OR Tambo International
route). It has intermodal connectivity.
1) Discuss the challenges faced by passenger rail transport in Africa and illustrate
by means of practical example where possible.
Challenges Faced by Passenger Rail Transport in Africa:
Passenger rail transport in Africa encounters a range of challenges that hinder its
effectiveness and growth:
Infrastructure and Maintenance: Many rail systems suffer from outdated infrastructure
and inadequate maintenance. For instance, Nigeria's railway system struggles with aging
tracks and insufficient maintenance, leading to derailments and delays.
Lack of Investment: Limited funding for rail infrastructure and rolling stock hampers
expansion and improvement. This results in insufficient capacity to meet growing passenger
demands.
Safety and Security: Passenger safety and security are concerns. Instances of theft,
vandalism, and attacks on trains discourage ridership. South Africa's train routes have
experienced security issues impacting passenger confidence.
Inefficient Operations: Inefficient management, lack of training, and poor coordination lead
to disruptions. Delays, cancellations, and overcrowding can arise. Kenya's commuter rail
system faces operational challenges, including delays and overcrowding.
Competition from Alternatives: Cheaper and more flexible transportation modes like buses
and informal taxis provide competition. These alternatives offer door-to-door service and
frequent routes, impacting rail ridership.
Assignment 2
SEMESTER 2 2023
, 1.1 Assignment questions
Intermodal activity and modal
shifts
In Learning Unit 1 - 4 we discussed how a lack of intermodal facilities is part of the
reason for the reduction in rail’s market share in the freight market, and the importance
of these facilities for the upliftment of rail in South Africa (section 1.4.2). Consider the
Gautrain service, how it links rail to bus and rail to air (via the OR Tambo International
route). It has intermodal connectivity.
1) Discuss the challenges faced by passenger rail transport in Africa and illustrate
by means of practical example where possible.
Challenges Faced by Passenger Rail Transport in Africa:
Passenger rail transport in Africa encounters a range of challenges that hinder its
effectiveness and growth:
Infrastructure and Maintenance: Many rail systems suffer from outdated infrastructure
and inadequate maintenance. For instance, Nigeria's railway system struggles with aging
tracks and insufficient maintenance, leading to derailments and delays.
Lack of Investment: Limited funding for rail infrastructure and rolling stock hampers
expansion and improvement. This results in insufficient capacity to meet growing passenger
demands.
Safety and Security: Passenger safety and security are concerns. Instances of theft,
vandalism, and attacks on trains discourage ridership. South Africa's train routes have
experienced security issues impacting passenger confidence.
Inefficient Operations: Inefficient management, lack of training, and poor coordination lead
to disruptions. Delays, cancellations, and overcrowding can arise. Kenya's commuter rail
system faces operational challenges, including delays and overcrowding.
Competition from Alternatives: Cheaper and more flexible transportation modes like buses
and informal taxis provide competition. These alternatives offer door-to-door service and
frequent routes, impacting rail ridership.
