The Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (Trim) has issued Request for Proposals (RFPs) to lease three siding facilities in the Eastern and Central Regions.
Trim said in a statement on Thursday that the RFP release reinforced its commitment to enable private-sector participation, accelerate network access and drive sustainable revenue streams that supported safer, more efficient rail logistics.
The RFPs align with the National Rail Policy (2022) and the Freight Logistics Roadmap (2023), and are intended to enable long-term access for third-party operators, cargo owners and logistics service providers.
“Bidders will engage through a transparent, market-based process to access Trim’s rail sidings under a regulated framework. This multi-stage process includes prequalification, functional evaluation, and final price/preference assessment. Safety, health, and regulatory compliance is a non-negotiable requirement,” the rail infrastructure manager said.
Proposals must include rail-line refurbishments, loading facilities, drainage, lighting, security, fencing, access roads, and other upgrades. Bidders are also expected to illustrate how they will facilitate improvements in turnaround times and road-to-rail efficiency. The minimum 10-year leases will include performance and investment commitments.
“The issuing of this request for proposals underscores our ongoing commitment to transparent, market-based access to critical rail assets,” said Trim chief executive, Moshe Motlohi.
“By inviting private-sector participation under a long-term, regulated framework, we aim to strengthen partnerships, improve service delivery and unlock value across our rail estate.”
A non-compulsory virtual tender briefing will be held on March 13. The bid submission deadline is April 30.
The relevant RFP documents are available at: https://www.etenders.gov.za/
