WOMAN GIVES BIRTH ON TRAIN

A KAAPSE woman gave birth aboard a train at Claremont Train Station on Wednesday morning.

The Passenger Railway Agency of South Africa (PRASA) released a statement, saying: “PRASA Metrorail Western Cape extends its heartfelt congratulations to the courageous mother who safely gave birth aboard The People's Train on Wednesday, the 23 April 2025, at Claremont Station in the early hours of [Wednesday] morning.

"It was a morning not short of a miracle when a mother safely gave birth to her bundle of joy aboard the Isitimela Sabantu-The People’s Train [Wednesday] on the Southern Line, turning an ordinary commute into a truly extraordinary occasion. 

"We wish to commend the PRASA Metrorail Western Cape train crew and the cleaning staff at the Herschel Girls School for their swift response and support to the mother and her newborn baby. PRASA extends heartfelt congratulations to the courageous mother and her family. 

"This moment reminds us of that PRASA is more than a transport provider, but can also be part of life’s journeys, both big and small.

"We are honoured to have played a role in this one. We wish the family a lifetime of love, health, and happiness, and many safe journeys ahead.

Regional Manager Raymond Maseko adds: "We are overjoyed to hear that both mother and the baby are doing well and in good health."

Maseko commended the train crew, customers, first responders, and all those who were able to quickly provide the mother with assistance during this unexpected and extraordinary moment, as well as getting the mother and newborn baby to the nearest healthcare facility.

He says: “PRASA Metrorail Western Cape wishes the family a lifetime of love, health, and happiness. The region is honoured to have been part of the beginning of this beautiful new life.

"Due to passenger confidentiality, PRASA is not at liberty to disclose the identity of the mother and child.”