Residents praise free and low-cost health services at Mabopane Railway Station
Joy and relief filled Mabopane Railway Station this month as the Transnet Phelophepa 2 Healthcare Train opened its doors to residents. Community members said they were happy to access medical care close to home and at affordable prices. The medical health care started on Monday, 15 June 2026, and departs Mabopane Station today, 26 June 2026.
Residents welcomed the simple process. No appointments were needed and services were allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Community members were advised to arrive early each day.
However, demand was high. Dr. Thabiso Manamela said, “The program was made to help the many community members. Unfortunately, we could not do that as we had to cut lines each and every day, but we helped many as we could.”
Despite the long queues, the community said they were happy with the help they received. Many residents said they hoped the train would return to Mabopane more often.
The response was positive because of the care on offer. Adults paid R10 each for extractions, fillings, or cleanings, while all dental procedures for children aged 16 and younger were free. The dental clinic also provided free screening and education.
At the eye clinic, patients received free vision screening. Glasses were available for R30 per pair and eye drops for R5. The clinic did not perform eye operations or fit bifocals.
General health services added more value. Blood pressure and diabetes screening were free for adults, while children could be screened with a parent or guardian present. The train also offered free education on cancer and diabetes, diabetes testing, and cancer screening. Women accessed free Pap smears and breast screening, and men received free prostate screening. Free counselling with qualified professionals was available for residents dealing with stressful situations.
Transnet Foundation staff were on site to answer questions and guide patients. Metrorail asked community members to bring clinic cards if they had them to help staff access medical history quickly.
As the Phelophepa train departs Mabopane today, residents said the visit had brought dignity, care, and relief to many homes. For a community that often travels far for health services, the train was more than a clinic on rails, it was a reminder that help can come to your doorstep.
