From next Sunday long distance train travellers used to sitting bolt upright in economy class seats will be able to book a bed, the Passenger Rail Association of SA (Prasa) said.
Previously, the economy class coaches did not have onboard sleeping facilities, and passengers sat upright as though on a bus. To be able to sleep, passengers had to book for tourist class.
This has changed and the new services begin on August 1 between Johannesburg and Durban and Cape Town to Durban.
"Our mandate as Prasa is to offer affordable public transport to the people of South Africa. People must be provided with decent transportation to enable them to travel in comfort and with dignity," said Ngabi Mareko, chief operations officer for Prasa rail operations, on Monday.
Prasa, which operates the Shosholoza Meyl long distance trains, advises travellers to book in advance.
Services on offer include fresh bedding and dining facilities. Tickets start at R120.
Payment must be made within 48 hours of booking otherwise the ticket will automatically cancel.
