“We are currently running seven block trains a day on the Gauteng- Durban corridor and our ultimate goal of 11 a day in both directions is looking good for next year when TFR takes delivery of 50 diesel locomotives. “Because of the urgency we opted for second hand machines, and although they are 6-8 years old, with their engines refurbished they’re as good as new,” said Gama. The first engine has been signed off in Chicago and is on its way to South Africa where the units will be assembled. These additional resources will enable TFR to redeploy existing locomotives on the Durban – Johannesburg route. “We’ve had a very good response from industry and are doing very well on the container side,” said Gama. He admits, however, that it’s not all plain sailing, with a power supply problem three weeks ago and the recent theft of two kilometres of copper cable playing havoc with the schedules.
First TFR locomotives on their way
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