Metrorail: 'Level crossings do get damaged when motorists take chances'

W Cape regional manager Richard Walker says entire signalling network was replaced on Cape Town level crossings to lessen risks.

Many callers report problems with the level crossings in and around the City of Cape Town.

Crossings at Kenilworth train station, Lakeside and the notorious level crossing in Blackheath have resulted in a number of lives lost.

Some concerns relate to the timing of warning lights, and complaints about the staff that sometimes man the crossings when the booms are not working.

Western Cape Metrorail regional manager Richard Walker talks to Kieno Kammies about the changes it has implemented to reduce the risks.

We've replaced the signalling on the entire network.

Richard Walker, Western Cape regional manager - Metrorail

When you have a technical issue there is a fail-safe and the level crossing will close with lights flashing. There is a number to report to and a team will be dispatched.

Richard Walker, Western Cape regional manager - Metrorail

The level crossings do get damaged when motorists take chances.

Richard Walker, Western Cape regional manager - Metrorail

In Kenilworth, two metres of cable has been vandalised and repairs are in progress, he says.

We need permanent guarding of that crossing by our staff....Motorists need to abide by staff at those level crossings.

Richard Walker, Western Cape regional manager - Metrorail

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