Durban's new R140 million railway station for the 2010 World Cup will be completed by September 2009, Metrorail said on Tuesday.

Regional manager Dumi Dube, said Metrorail was on track for the World Cup and that the new station would not only service tourists during the event but also afterwards.

Several other railway stations in the province were also expected to receive a major facelift, ahead of the cup.

Railway officials said tourists would also be able to shop at a new multi-million rand mall, situated along the train route.

With Christmas around the corner, Dube said, Metrorail had also spruced up its festive security.

He said a 350-strong railway police force, 600 security guards, and more than 120 protection services employees would be deployed along all KwaZuluNatal metrorail routes this holiday season.

"But sadly, when most of us will be focusing our thoughts and energies on enjoying the pleasures and happiness of life, there are certain elements within our communities, who continue with the criminal, illegal immoral activities..."

Law breakers did not take a holiday and in fact it was a more "lucrative time of year for them".

"Our safety team will work long hours with drive and determination to route out the vandals, thieves and trouble makers," said Dube.