Down the line

de Gary Hirson

"The Southern Line snakes between Cape Town and Simonstown - 37 kilometers of some of the most spectacular scenery in the Cape. But talk about incongruities. The windows at times are so grimy that the mountains and ocean are mere smudges in the distance. Some of the modern coaches are spruced-up, others smeared with offensive graffiti. Businessmen in suits rub shoulders with bling hipsters ; beggars share seats with tourists. Some commuters sit comfortably while others hang out the moving carriages, hoping to arrive at their station alive and on time. Over 3.5 million commuters depend on the line monthly, but a late, idling, or cancelled train is common. Yet at times it all seems so smooth. Ticket office open, security guards patrolling, trains on schedule, and spotless coaches make for an effortless journey DOWN THE LINE". --Back cover.