Rail expertise in danger of extinction

South Africa needs a plan of action sooner rather than later if it wants to retain its small remaining pocket of railway expertise, says David Anglin from Bombardier. “The historical lack of investment in rolling stock and other rail infrastructure has taken its toll on the country – and while there is a turnaround from key role players to now invest and upgrade, implementation must happen quickly,” said Anglin at the annual Railways and Harbours Conference and Exhibition in Johannesburg last week. “If we do not see fast implementation of an investment programme in rail infrastructure in the country, it will be too late. The little expertise you have left will be gone, and it will also be irreplaceable.” He said Bombardier, which has been involved in the Gautrain Rapid Rail Project, prided itself on sharing its global expertise with developing countries. “We have done it in China and Korea to name two, and we believe we can add value to South Africa.” Anglin, a Canadian who lives in Germany and works in South Africa, said global sharing was a norm in international business. “We see a very good fit with South Africa as we can provide the skills necessary to grow the rail industry. We have what you need and we are able to provide it.”