The noise made by the new blue trains’ horns, particularly at level crossings, is too loud, say those living near the railway line in Muizenberg.
The introduction of updated warning technology has made the train horns much louder, and it’s disrupting daily life, say the residents.
Ted Baumann complained in a Muizenberg Facebook group, saying, “We understand the need for warnings at level crossings; yes, we know it’s about security and safety, but the noise has become unbearable. The new trains are much louder than the older ones, and it’s hard to deal with if you live right next to the railway line.”
While safety was a priority, other solutions should be considered, he said.
“Complaining about excessive noise is not the same as questioning the need for hooting. The new trains have horns that are far louder and disperse sound across a much wider area than the older models. There are alternatives, like directional horns or additional safety measures, such as lights or bells, that could warn of arriving trains without this level of disruption.”
Sue Beattie said: “These horns are, quite simply, too loud. And the booms are flimsy. The people living on the railway enclosure are endangering themselves and the sanity of the train drivers. It’s inconsiderate. Screaming like that, deafening people for blocks.“
Mr Baumann conceded that, according to his research, the trains’ horns met international standards, with a minimum level of 96 to 110 decibels, but he added: “In every summary and research document I’ve seen, there are many exceptions and supplementary measures that can help mitigate the impact of this sound level.
“Rather than throw up our hands and say, ‘There’s nothing we can do because of ‘regulations,’ it appears the current situation reflects convenience to The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) rather than an absolute requirement. If we don’t raise our voices about it, we’re stuck with it.“
Prasa acting regional manager Raymond Maseko said the new trains, known as Electric Multiple Units (EMUs), complied with all safety regulations.
“All level crossing procedures are codified in the Railway Safety Management standard RSR 2-2-1 and the South African Roads Traffic Signs Manual (SARTSM) Chapter 7, volume 2,” he said.
“The EMUs also have a directional horn to manage noise dispersion.”
Mr Maseko noted that Prasa could not independently change the horns’ sound levels.
“On its own, Prasa cannot deviate from the operations laid in the standards. Neither can it modify the signal strength without approval from the regulator,” he said.
“Operationally, we have made efforts to accommodate residents by scheduling early trains between 11 pm and 5 am. Additionally, we monitor all level crossings through CCTV to observe driver behaviour and conduct awareness campaigns to encourage safe driving practices,” he added.
Mr Baumann said more could be done.
“There are numerous additional and supplementary ways railway systems can use to warn of arriving trains. The one we’re confronted with isn’t the only option,” he said. “There are solutions that balance safety and the quality of life for residents.”
Mr Maseko said Prasa was committed to working with the community.
“We will continue engaging the residents through the sub-council for us to find an amicable solution,” he said.
