Private sector happy to match TFR’s 24/7 schedule

When it launched its scheduled railway programme, Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) highlighted the problem of the private sector closing at 17:00. This, they added, impacted on their ability to provide a round-the-clock service. But that would not be the case, according to private sector container depot executives who talked to FTW. Graham Peinke, MD of SACD Freight, said that his chain of depots generally stayed open till 22:00. “But,” he added, “if customers request it, we would stay open after hours.” He felt that matching TFR’s timing would not be a problem. Ash Boodram, MD of Bidfreight Intermodal, agreed. “Our closing time varies from depot to depot – depending on the delivery/ collection times in that area,” he told FTW. “We would certainly remain open on request, and would accommodate TFR.” Sayed Mohamed, MD of CHC Container Depots, expressed similar thoughts. “We do normally close at 17:00,” he said, “but will go onto night shift if needed.” TFR last month announced the launch of a scheduled service that would guarantee departure times of each train on every node of the rail route. CEO Siyabonga Gama said it was the first step towards a truly 24/7 service, 364 days a year.