It was obvious that Batswana and other travellers longed for the passenger service train after it was discontinued in April 2009. Although the authorities explained their decision to stop the passenger train service seven years ago, Batswana were not convinced. Some of the reasons were that the passenger train was not economically viable and that the coaches were dilapidated and exposed passengers and the BR to high levels of risk.
The resultant stoppage then led to traffic congestion in our over used main roads especially during the public holidays. This also led to unnecessary accidents. But this is in the past, now we celebrate the launching of the BR Express, our pride as a progressive nation. The BR’s primary mandate was not complete without the provision of the passenger train service. The world over, the railway transportation is cost effective and BR is not an exemption. The prices charged by the organisation for the passenger service, in our view, are reasonable. And the BR is more likely not to make profits out of the provision of the service. We are reliably informed that the passenger service will consist of the following classes: standard (economy) class coaches; business class coaches; sleeper (first) coaches; buffet car; and the generator van as well as the luggage van. The train, we have been informed, will stop at six strategic stations being Lobatse, Gaborone, Mahalapye, Palapye, Serule and Francistown. We think this decision to stop at only six stations is not fair to other Batswana living along the railway line. The BR Express as a state property belongs to all Batswana. They should all enjoy the experience of travelling in the train. We plead with the powers-that-be to reconsider this decision. More stations along the railway line should be included. As an inclusive country that does not discriminate against our fellow citizens, we should be mindful of those living in rural settlements.
