Feasibility Study for a Tram/Light Rail System Connecting Durban Inner City and King Shaka International Airport
The eThekwini Municipality is looking to conduct a feasibility study for the development of a tram-light rail system to connect Durban’s inner city with King Shaka International Airport. This project aims to assess the viability of introducing an efficient, sustainable, and integrated public transport solution, which will support the city’s long-term growth, reduce traffic congestion, and promote urban regeneration.
Key Project Drivers
- Population Growth: The Durban metropolitan area is expected to experience significant population growth. The proposed tram/light rail system is intended to alleviate the pressures on existing transport networks by providing a reliable and sustainable alternative.
- Economic Development: This project will enhance connectivity to key economic hubs, including the bustling inner city and the fast-growing King Shaka International Airport precinct, which is a focal point for tourism and business travel.
- Urban Regeneration: The light rail system will also serve as a catalyst for urban regeneration by providing accessible transportation, thus encouraging residential and commercial investment along the proposed routes.
There are nine proposed corridors per the Integrated Public Transport Network (IPTN) Plan, including:
- KwaMashu to Durban CBD: Via Malandela Road, Inanda Road, and Umgeni Road.
- North-South Rail Corridor: From KwaMashu Station and Bridge City, via Effingham and Greenwood Park, down to Central Durban, Umlazi, and Isipingo Station.
- Bridge City to Pinetown CBD: Via M25 and MR577.
- Bridge City to Mobeni: Via M25 and N2, with a spur via Edwin Swales Drive to Clairwood.
- Chatsworth to Durban CBD: Along Higginson Highway and South Coast Road.
- Mpumalanga to Durban CBD: Via M13 through Pinetown, along the N3.
- Hillcrest CBD to Durban CBD: Connecting through Umgeni Road, North Coast Road, and Blackburn Road, continuing via Umhlanga Rocks Drive (with a spur from Lighthouse Road) through Cornubia to King Shaka International Airport, and further extending via Dube Trade Port along Watson Highway to Tongaat CBD.
- Bridge City to Umhlanga Rocks New Town Centre: Via Phoenix Highway and Cornubia.
- Phoenix Industrial to Durban CBD: Via Phoenix Industrial area and Northern Drive.
Including a dedicated rail link to connect the inner city to King Shaka International Airport.
The study is expected to be completed within a 6-12 month timeframe – after tender award, with detailed findings on route viability, infrastructure requirements, and operational strategies.
