Gautrain took its first run on June 7, 2010 Monday, changing the level and standard of modern transportation in South Africa for ever. The much awaited train service is set to carry its passengers arriving on Flights to South Africa during world cup 2010 from OR Tambo International Airport to “Sandton”, underground Station (the 15 storeys). The opening service scheduled only three days before the World Cup kick-off, filled the spectators with joy, excitement and ever raised expectations from a world cup host country – the bar is raised.

“Gautrain” is South Africa’s first high-speed train especially running for the World Cup, starting this Friday. Some quick and interesting facts about “Gautrain” are as follows:-

• The Gau-train’s name also indicates the province “Gua-nteng” (provincial capital Johannesburg), where the train is set to run.
• The country’s fastest train costed a massive 24bn rand ($3bn; £2.1bn) in its making.
• The train’s top speed is 160 km/h (100 mph).
• It is routed to connect OR Tambo International Airport Johannesburg with Sandton Station. From Sandton there will be feeder buses to stadiums and other locations.
• The route also involves stop at Marlboro and Rhondesfield before reaching its destination.
• The interior of the train is a mosaic of rich royal blue and gold. The blue tall-backed seating , gold and blue spotted carpet with two stripes running up, and the gold Gautrain logo emblazoned on it gives the interior just the perfect royal look.
• The safety and security of passengers is monitored 24/7 through hundreds of CCTV security cameras on the train, at the stations and parking areas.
• Other special services and facilitates are also taken good care of such wheelchair access, toilets, lifts, fare gates, ticket offices and ticket vending machines.
• The fare will range from R16; however trips from the airport to Sandton are expected to be about R100 to R120, one way.
• The train moves silently with no surge or jolt, reaching a speed of 160km/hour with ease.

It is strongly hoped that moves like this will bring a much needed change to South Africa’s outdated and sometimes unreliable transport system. It is not only a convenient way but also a safer and enjoyable experience. Despite its inaugural run only three days ahead of world cup kick off, an interesting fact is that Gautrain was not intended to be a World Cup project! Thanks to the local authorities and constructors who got the main route ready in time for the football extravaganza 2010.