Citrus exporters are increasingly tuning into the benefits of rail - with volumes of citrus railed more than doubling year on year.
According to the Citrus Growers’ Association, a total of 22 000 tons of citrus was moved from Tzaneen to Durban by rail in 2015. If it had been transported by road, it would have required 650 trucks.
In 2016 the volume more than doubled with railings from both Tzaneen and Marble Hall – a total of 47 000 tons - replacing almost 1 400 truckloads.
While it’s hats off to the producers and exporters for driving the initiative, thanks to the efforts of Transnet Freight Rail, Transnet Port Terminals and service providers, there were few delays, according to the CGA.
