Violent community protests in certain areas of KwaZulu-Natal have disrupted operations on the Richards Bay Coal Line, according to a statement from Transnet.
The protests relate to community demands for jobs and business opportunities.
“The disruption has resulted in the suspension of coal line operations, service to customers and potential losses to the South African economy,” a spokesman said.
The Richard’s Bay Coal Line is the country’s dedicated railway line which handles South Africa’s coal exports by connecting the mines in Mpumalanga with the Richards Bay Coal Terminal (RBCT) at the port of Richards Bay. The line also moves domestic commodities such as chrome, coke, chemicals and timber.
“Transnet is working closely with customers to ensure minimal disruption,” the spokesman said. “We have deployed security in the affected areas and are working with relevant authorities to safeguard our employees, infrastructure and the assets of our customers.”
