PRASA Western Cape will introduce additional train services for rugby supporters travelling to Friday’s DHL Stormers clash against the New Zealand All Blacks at DHL Stadium, as the agency looks to ease congestion and encourage the use of public transport.

The additional services form part of PRASA’s plans to improve access to major sporting events while providing safe, reliable and affordable transport for thousands of spectators expected to attend the fixture.

A special return fare of R20 will apply for supporters travelling by train.

Dedicated post-match services will depart Cape Town Station for Kraaifontein, Strand, Simon’s Town, Fish Hoek and Retreat via Ottery. Departure times will be aligned with the end of the match, giving supporters enough time to walk from DHL Stadium to Cape Town Station via the designated Fan Walk.

PRASA said event ambassadors and staff will be stationed at Cape Town Station throughout the evening to assist passengers with travel information and directions.

To help reduce traffic around the stadium precinct, supporters are encouraged to make use of PRASA’s secure Park-and-Ride facilities along the Southern and Northern rail corridors. Commuters are also advised to arrive at their departure stations early and buy return tickets before travelling to avoid long queues.

The rail agency says the initiative forms part of its commitment to making rail the preferred mode of transport for major events in the Western Cape.

“As the public transport backbone of the Western Cape, PRASA is committed to safe, reliable, affordable and convenient rail travel for major events. Working alongside its event and transport partners, the agency continues to position rail as the first choice for supporters across the province.”