By: Mining review Africa

One of the biggest challenges that the South African mining sector has faced is the lack of functioning railway networks.

In South Africa, Transnet’s woes are known to all, and it has an adverse of mining activities as many have turned to getting their products to ports via road. This has resulted in delays in reaching ports, congestion and damage to the road networks.

In fact, in late 2023, the situation was so bad that Transnet temporarily suspended truck processing to address unprecedented congestion and traffic at the Richards Bay Coal Terminal.

For decades, Transnet has held a monopoly and while it battles with corruption and other internal issues, the country’s rail network has deteriorated.

Therefore, it is good news that Transnet, through its operating division Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM), has completed its adjudication process for third-party access to the country’s freight rail network.

This milestone marks the implementation oflong-awaited rail reforms and opens the door for private Train Operating Companies (TOCs) to begin operations across key freight corridors—many of which serve the mining industry.

Thus far, 11 TOCs have been awarded conditional approvals to operate across six major freight corridors. These routes will support the transportation of coal, chrome, manganese and iron ore.

Not only will it ensure a sustainable and reliable road network, but it will also unlock billions in investments.  It seems that, finally, our railway network is on the right track.