Spoornet commits to consultation with its customers

Closer co-operation with Sapo high on the agenda at Crof meeting ALAN PEAT RECENT TALKS between Spoornet and the Container Rail Operators' Forum (Crof) have yielded positive results, with the rail operator committing to a more transparent approach in future. “They told us that they would collaborate more with industry before introducing any changes,” said Crof chairman Peter Lewin, director of MSC Depots, “so that they will at least have some input from the private sector to assist with decision-making. “We have seen numerous changes introduced by Spoornet without any consultation with our forum,” said Lewin. “This has not achieved anything positive and in most cases has had a negative impact.” At the latest meeting, Crof called for Spoornet to commit themselves to a stronger relationship with sister organisation, SA Port Operations (Sapo). “This,” said Lewin, “because the operational requirements at the ports have a major impact on the overall rail service. “While we believe that the actual transit time on rail between the main centres is acceptable, the delays before-and-after the rail leg need to be improved to ensure that the overall transit time becomes competitive.” The recent introduction of the “fuel levy” was also addressed in depth, Lewin added. “While we understand that this may be necessary,” he said, “we cannot accept that adjustments to the rail rates are made as frequently as they are. “One must bear in mind that we have to circulate our rates worldwide and these rate adjustments are made at short notice when pre-paid traffic has already been shipped. It then becomes the responsibility of the rail operator to carry the shortfall on a rate structure that has very little margin.” Crof, therefore, requested Spoornet to consider a consistent period of time between rate reviews. “This,” said Lewin, “so that we can have stability in our rate structure to encourage the use of the rail service.” “We have seen a steady decline in both volumes carried by rail as well as market share in a growing business sector. This will not improve without transparency and the combined efforts of both Spoornet and industry.” Lewin also told FTW that the meeting was held in a positive light by both parties - and it still remains his belief that, with “collaboration and combined efforts”, the rail service will be able to compete significantly with the road transport industry in SA.