It is still unclear whether the airport link of the R25,4-billion Gautrain rapid-rail project will be finished in time for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

“The good news is that, if you ask me today, yes, we can make it,” says Gautrain Management Agency (GMA) CEO and Gauteng government Gautrain project leader Jack van der Merwe.

“At the moment it is technically feasible that we can complete the first phase in time for the World Cup. However,” he adds, “commercially we have not yet come to an agreement.”

“We” refers to the Gauteng government and the Bombela consortium, responsible for the construction of the rail project.

The project's phase one – the link between the OR Tambo International Airport and Sandton – is not contractually scheduled to be completed until the end of June 2010, with the world cup kick-off to take place on June 11.

Bombela has already handed in a proposal – including an unknown price tag on the process to accelerate construction in order to open the system in May 2010 – to the Gauteng government.

Van der Merwe said earlier this year that a decision would be made by the end of October as to whether government would provide additional funds to ensure the project is finished before June 11.

However, he now notes that the decision may only be made in December.

“As long as Bombela keeps on working, it is not too late. It will take as long as it takes.”

Van der Merwe adds that government “is adamant” that it has a limited budget in light of the current recession, and the subsequent estimated R70-billion to R90-billion revenue shortfall for the current financial year.

“We are under a reasonable amount of pressure to consider whether finishing in time for the World Cup is indeed a value for money proposition.”

He says once it can be agreed with Bombela on what exactly the costs may be to complete phase one of the Gautrain in time for the 2010 event, GMA will have to consult with the Gauteng and national governments on the financial impact of such an acceleration process.

Van der Merwe reiterates that the Gautrain has never been a 2010 project.

The Gautrain project was announced in January 2000. South Africa was awarded the World Cup in April 2004.

* Phase two of the Gautrain project is scheduled for completion in March 2011, ultimately linking Johannesburg, Tshwane and the OR Tambo International Airport.

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