Cape Town - Following an extensive and comprehensive 7-week maintenance break, the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway has reopened, just as weather conditions have improved with the emergence of spring.
The reopening yesterday saw first trips since the temporary closure to the iconic and landmark site, with thousands of visitors taking in the breathtaking views atop Table Mountain.
In a statement, Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company executive director Selma Hercules said: “We’ve replaced the track ropes, overhauled the hanging and running gear and adhered to strict original equipment manufacturer specifications. It’s all part of our ongoing commitment to safety, quality and excellence."
Western Cape Premier Alan Winde was also present, along with Cape Town Tourism CEO Enver Duminy, yesterday morning for the reopening of the cableway.
Winde said: “Over 1 million tourists visit the cableway each year, and they have sold 7 000 tickets just for today. Last year, we broke all tourism records with tourists coming into the Western Cape.”
A visitor from the US, Shay Atkinson, said it was a first visit on the African continent, and first time on the cableway.
“I had the best time! The views were immaculate,” Atkinson said.
The reopening also coincided with the commencement of Tourism Month.
Duminy said: “As Cape Town Tourism we are delighted to announce the official start of Tourism Month this September and also welcome the reopening of Table Mountain Aerial Cableway after temporary closure for annual maintenance. Tourism is a significant sector for our city, contributing R23.7 billion as our gross value add in 2023, and sustains thousands of jobs across the length and breadth of our beautiful city.”
South Africans who celebrated their birthday during the closure period are still able to redeem their free birthday cableway ticket until September 30.
They will be required to present their valid South African ID at the Lower Station ticket counter.
With summer approaching, operating times have been adjusted and from September 1 to December 14. The first car ascends at 8.30am and the last ride up is at 6pm.
shakirah.thebus@inl.co.za
Cape Argus