Prasa’s Security Plan on Track to Eradicate Vandalism

The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) has committed to a robust R1.5 billion investment in security as part of its corporate plan for the 2024–2027 period. This ambitious initiative is set to significantly bolster the protection of South Africa’s rail infrastructure network, addressing the rampant vandalism and theft that have plagued the system, particularly during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

A cornerstone of the plan is the establishment of 57 forward operating bases strategically positioned across Prasa’s rail network. Each base will cover a radius of approximately 35km and be staffed by a dedicated team of 25 security personnel, resulting in a total deployment of over 1,425 security officers. These bases will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including advanced surveillance systems, drones, and rapid-response vehicles, enabling real-time monitoring and swift intervention in response to security threats. Designed to operate independently from the national power grid, each base will leverage solar power and backup generators to ensure uninterrupted functionality, even during load shedding or other power disruptions—a critical feature given South Africa’s ongoing energy challenges.

The forward base model is specifically engineered to provide rapid response capabilities, reducing reaction times to incidents such as cable theft, infrastructure vandalism, and trespassing. By decentralizing security operations, Prasa aims to enhance situational awareness and deterrence across its 3,200km rail network, which serves millions of passengers annually. The strategic placement of these bases will prioritize high-risk areas, including urban corridors and remote sections prone to criminal activity.

A key technological component of the plan is the expansion of Prasa’s e-security solution, which has already been implemented at four major depots with promising results. The e-security system integrates artificial intelligence-driven analytics, motion sensors, and high-definition CCTV cameras to detect and prevent criminal activities in real time. Data from these pilot projects indicates a significant reduction in incidents of vandalism and theft at equipped sites, with early reports suggesting a decrease of up to 40% in security breaches at these depots. Encouraged by this success, Prasa plans to roll out the e-security solution to additional high-priority locations, including substations, high-site radio towers, warehouses, and control rooms, which are critical to maintaining operational continuity.

The comprehensive CCTV rollout will see the installation of over 2,000 cameras across Prasa’s infrastructure by 2027, coupled with centralized monitoring hubs staffed by trained personnel. These hubs will utilize facial recognition technology and predictive algorithms to identify potential threats before they escalate, further strengthening the agency’s proactive stance against crime. Additionally, Prasa is exploring partnerships with private security firms and local law enforcement to integrate its systems with broader crime-prevention networks, fostering a collaborative approach to safeguarding rail assets.

Prasa’s rail network suffered a devastating blow during the COVID-19 pandemic, with widespread vandalism and theft crippling operations. Over 80% of its stations and critical infrastructure, including tracks, signaling systems, and overhead cables, were damaged or stolen during this period, costing the agency an estimated R4 billion in repairs. Despite these setbacks, Prasa has made remarkable progress in restoring functionality, with 31 of its 40 rail corridors now operational as of mid-2025. The revitalization of key lines, such as the Mabopane-Pretoria corridor and the Cape Town-Kraaifontein line, has restored commuter access for thousands of daily passengers, contributing to economic recovery in underserved communities.

The security plan aligns with Prasa’s broader modernization strategy, which includes fleet upgrades with new electric multiple-unit trains and the implementation of digital ticketing systems. By safeguarding its infrastructure, Prasa aims to ensure reliable and safe passenger services, rebuild public trust, and support South Africa’s economic development. The agency has also engaged with community stakeholders to address socio-economic drivers of vandalism, such as unemployment and poverty, through job creation initiatives linked to the security and maintenance programs. Over 500 local jobs are expected to be created through the forward base initiative alone, providing a dual benefit of enhanced security and community upliftment.

Prasa’s R1.5 billion security investment represents a pivotal step toward eradicating vandalism and securing the future of South Africa’s passenger rail network. With advanced technology, strategic deployment, and a focus on rapid response, the agency is poised to transform its infrastructure into a resilient and reliable system, ensuring safe and efficient travel for millions of South Africans.