Spoornet’s new locos await ‘imminent’ tender decision

‘Applications being adjudicated’ LEONARD NEILL THE TENDER for Spoornet’s R15bn refurbishment and renewal of locomotives and rolling stock has attracted several international and South African manufacturers. Transnet has confirmed that tender applications are ‘in the process of being adjudicated’ and an announcement of the successful awards is expected in the near future. This will represent the largest freight railway contract to be issued in Africa. Among the leading companies to tender are Siemens Southern Africa, Alstom, Bombadier, Murray and Roberts and the South African Rail Commuter Corporation (SARCC). The fleet-renewal programme includes the purchase of new locomotives and wagons in addition to the upgrade of existing stock. It aims to address the capacity constraints which have hampered Spoornet’s performance in recent years. Murray and Roberts, like Siemens, has previously undertaken refurbishment work for Spoornet. Siemens, the giant engineering and electronics company, is confident of getting part of the contract, and has announced that it has secured financial backing that will allow it to start the upgrade as soon as the tender is awarded. “A consortium led by Standard Bank, Commerzbank, and financial institution KFW has made offers that cover 100% of the total order financing and do not require government guarantees,” says Siemens executive director Koos Smit His company will partner Transwerk, the Transnet rolling stock maintenance unit, if awarded the tender, says Smit. With the financial backing, Transwerk’s existing infrastructure and expertise will ensure an immediate launch of the fleet renewal programme, he said.