RFA CEO Gavin Kelly
Industry organisation the Road Freight Association (RFA) says the collision of two coal trains on the Richards Bay ore line at the weekend underscores the vulnerability of the multi-ore line owing to the inherent risks of outdated manual systems and poor operational control.
The derailment will take several days to clear, which will pressure producers to send bulk ore by road, says RFA CEO Gavin Kelly.
"There will need to be an investigation into what damage was caused to the line and direct systems, such as signalling and power supply systems, but, more importantly, how a recurrence can be prevented," he adds.
If such occurrences are caused by loadshedding, as alleged, then sustainable electricity supply to all sections of the line must be secured as and when required, as one example of how another such occurrence can be prevented, he says.
"Key logistical networks, infrastructure and operations must provide an efficient, reliable, sustainable and revenue generation logistics chain for the businesses and citizens of South Africa," Kelly emphasises.