Transport | Rail | Passenger

https://staging1.creamermedia.com/

Advertise on this page? Click Here to Learn More

Rail News

Transnet says reforms advancing to enable third-party rail access

By: Terence Creamer 30th July 2024 State-owned freight logistics group Transnet reports that the vertical separation of its rail business is on track and that the operating models and organisational designs for the rail operating company and infrastructure manager respectively will be finalised in the first quarter of 2025. In an... →

Self-propelled railcars, partnerships key to sustainable transportation

26th July 2024 US railcar and technology manufacturer Intramotev has successfully deployed the world’s first self-propelled battery-electric railcar in a traditional freight train, and this is viewed as a major step forward towards promoting sustainable freight transportation. The manufacturer has also... →

A generic image of a self-propelled battery-electric railcar

NOVEL APPROACH Forward-thinking perspectives are required to develop freight transportation landscape

‘Unconscionable’ to return allocated money instead of fixing potholes – Creecy

By: Irma Venter 26th July 2024 Transport Minister Barbara Creecy says “immediate attention” will be given to the “critical issue” of the underspending of funding allocated to road maintenance and road construction by both Department of Transport (DoT) entities and provincial transport departments. “In a country where citizens... →

Manufacturer commits to providing innovative solutions

By: Lumkile Nkomfe 26th July 2024 Specialised industrial rubber moulding manufacturer MasQtec asserts that its ability to harness cutting-edge technology to reverse engineer and develop rail solutions within its manufacturing operations is key in addressing diverse customer needs with precision and quality. MasQtec employs... →

An image of MasQtec employees working in a factory

GROWTH OBJECTIVES Increasing the capacity for developing high-performing rail component products outlined in company's overarching strategy

Long-standing relationships key

By: Lumkile Nkomfe 26th July 2024 Engineered Bearings and Industrial Motion product supplier Timken states that its ability to build meaningful business relationships in the railway industry over the past 90 years has provided a key stepping stone for its continued success in Africa. “Local partnerships are critical, as South... →

INSTITUTIONAL KNOWLEDGE Local product supplier partnerships complemented with a comprehensive understanding of the railway industry key to growth on the continent

Numsa signs above-inflation wage agreement with Gautrain

By: Tasneem Bulbulia 25th July 2024 Labour union the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (Numsa) has welcomed the signing of an above-inflation wage agreement with the Bombela Operating Company, which operates the Gautrain. The agreement is for one year – from July 1 this year to June 30, 2025. →

Photo by Creamer Media
Numsa has signed a wage agreement with the BOC, which operates the Gautrain

TFR boasts slight improvement but admits much work still to be done

By: Darren Parker 24th July 2024 Although there has been a “slight” improvement year-on-year in terms of State-owned Transnet Freight Rail’s (TFR’s) North Corridor performance, the beleaguered rail operator is “not out of the woods yet”, TFR north corridor acting managing executive Theo Johnson has said. “‘Slight improvement’ is... →

PRASA passenger numbers reach 40-million a year, increase by 167% – Emeran

By: Irma Venter 19th July 2024 The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) is “making steady and significant progress in getting passenger trains back on track”, with the urban rail service carrying about 40-million passengers in 2023/24 on 31 of the 40 PRASA rail corridors now operational, says CEO Hishaam Emeran.... →

Recovery in logistics sector continued in May, latest Ctrack index shows

By: Irma Venter 19th July 2024 The newest Ctrack Transport and Freight Index (Ctrack TFI) shows that the recent recovery in South Africa’s logistics sector continued in May, albeit at a slower pace. The index improved in May to reach a level of 125.6 – an increase of 1.7% compared with April’s level, and 2.5% above year-ago... →

AfDB approves R18.85bn loan for Transnet's business recovery plan

By: Creamer Media Reporter 18th July 2024 The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) has approved an R18.85-billion, or $1-billion, corporate loan to South Africa's State-owned freight transport and logistics group Transnet for its recovery and growth plans. The 25-year loan is fully guaranteed by the government of South Africa. It will... →

RSR opens National Rail Safety Awards nominations

By: Schalk Burger 16th July 2024 The Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) will host the inaugural National Rail Industry Awards on October 24, at the Houghton Hotel, in Johannesburg, and has opened nominations for the awards, which will close on August 31. The event will celebrate outstanding achievements and individuals who have made... →

‘Unconscionable’ to return money to Treasury instead of fixing potholes – Creecy

By: Irma Venter 15th July 2024 Transport Minister Barbara Creecy says “immediate attention” will be given to the “critical issue” of the underspending of funding allocated to road maintenance and road construction by both Department of Transport (DoT) entities and provincial transport departments. “In a country where citizens... →

Barbara Creecy

AA, Outa weigh in on new Transport Minister

By: Irma Venter 12th July 2024 Newly appointed Transport Minister Barbara Creecy is the eleventh minister in this portfolio since 1994, which is a cause for concern as continuity within government departments is vital, says the Automobile Association (AA) of South Africa. The AA says the need for an improved transport model in... →

Railway functionality hinges on fasteners

12th July 2024 Railway infrastructure stands as a testament to human ingenuity, connecting cities, nations and continents, says local fastener manufacturer and distributor Swagefast, adding that beneath the seemingly simple tracks lies a complex network of components that ensure the safety and efficiency of... →

STAYING ON TRACK The bolts and fasteners supplied by Swagefast to teh rail sector are specially designed for the rigours of continuous use

Bombela says Gautrain services unaffected by strike

By: Sabrina Jardim 9th July 2024 The Bombela Concession Company has assured customers that Gautrain services are unaffected by a strike by Bombela Operating Company (BOC) personnel, which started on July 8. The company notes that the strike affects the staff of the BOC, which is one of the subcontractors appointed by Bombela to... →

Recovery in logistics sector continued in May – Ctrack index

By: Irma Venter 5th July 2024 The newest Ctrack Transport and Freight Index (Ctrack TFI) shows that the recent recovery in South Africa’s logistics sector continued in May, albeit at a slower pace. The index improved in May to reach a level of 125.6 – an increase of 1.7% compared with April’s level, and 2.5% above year-ago... →

PRASA passenger numbers reach 40-million a year, up 167% – Emeran

By: Irma Venter 28th June 2024 The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) is “making steady and significant progress in getting passenger trains back on track”, with the urban rail service carrying about 40-million passengers in 2023/24 on 31 of the 40 PRASA rail corridors now operational, says CEO Hishaam Emeran.... →

Hishaam Emeran

The future of Operation Vulindlela

By: Creamer Media Reporter 28th June 2024 Engineering News editor Terence Creamer discusses the issues tackled during Phase 1 of Operation Vulindlela and the successes achieved thus far; the likelihood of Operation Vulindlela continuing as programme of action under the new government of national unity; and what could be on the agenda... →

The future of Operation Vulindlela

Recovery in logistics sector continued in April despite ports being lashed by storms – Ctrack index

By: Irma Venter 28th June 2024 After declining in the first two months of the year, the Ctrack Transport and Freight Index (Ctrack TFI) continued its momentum in April to reach a level of 123.4 – an increase of 2.8% compared with March. This is also 1.5% above the levels seen a year ago. →

‘Second wave’ of Operation Vulindlela set to prioritise ‘green and digital’ growth

By: Terence Creamer 25th June 2024 The ‘second wave’ of government’s Operation Vulindlela initiative is poised to be widened to include additional structural reforms to those that have been pursued to date in electricity, freight logistics, telecoms, water and skills with the goal of stimulating higher levels of economic growth... →

South Africa could leverage its potent solar and wind resources to power green manufacturing

Thelo to raise $250m with eye on Africa’s giant rail corridors

By: Bloomberg 25th June 2024 Thelo Group’s management plans to buy Deutsche Bahn’s 49% shareholding and is in talks with financiers to raise $250-million to help the South African company transform into a developer of rail lines and ports in sub-Saharan Africa. The capital will be used “to expand our capacity quite... →

Logistics Crisis Committee’s work to continue, freight sector poised to transform in next two years

By: Irma Venter 21st June 2024 Business Unity South Africa (Busa) president Mxolisi Mgojo says he is confident that work within the National Logistics Crisis Committee (NLCC) will continue as political parties grapple to form a coalition government post the national elections held at the end of May. “We partner with the... →

Transnet appoints Letsoalo as new group COO

By: Creamer Media Reporter 20th June 2024 State-owned freight logistics group Transnet has announced the appointment of Lekau ‘Solly’ Letsoalo as group COO, with effect from July 1. Letsoalo returns to the group where he worked previously as COO of Transnet Port Terminals. →

Lekau ‘Solly’ Letsoalo

Transnet to boost rail for VW, other automakers

By: Bloomberg 14th June 2024 Transnet said it’s in talks to run additional trains between a port in Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape province and the country’s commercial hub of Gauteng to better link the two automotive manufacturing hubs. The state freight rail and ports company has faced withering criticism from carmakers to... →

Companies to improve railway operationality

By: Trent Roebeck 14th June 2024 Construction Group Enza Construction and electrical engineering and infrastructure development company Tractionel Enterprise are assisting in the process of reviving South Africa’s rail and freight sector operations, thereby contributing to the country’s rail infrastructure development and... →

BELLE OMBRE Tractionel Enterprise and Enza Contruction will repair and replace rail infrastructure at the Belle Ombre rail lines as part of its revival of the Belle Ombre-Hercules-Koedoespoort corridor

Tech enhances tunnel safety

14th June 2024 Manufacturing company and surface specialist SURTECO states that it ensures greater safety in Norway's tunnels, owing to the preeminece of safety in tunnels, which is a priority in Scandinavian countries. It is, therefore, understandable that one of the world's first linear multifunctional LED... →

LIGHTING THE WAY The Handrail Security System and illuminated handrails will enhance tunnel safety

Camera surveillance benefits sector

14th June 2024 Despite the pivotal role played by South Africa’s public transport systems, recent minibus taxi strikes show the public transport system’s vulnerabilities, in the form of the effects such action has on commuters and the economy, says Axis Communications. The Western Cape experienced damages to... →

MARCEL BRUYNS Axis Communications Africa sales manager Marcel Bruyns highlights the important role played by the South African transport and rail system for regional economic health

Volkswagen says carmakers seek to revive key South African rail line

By: Bloomberg 13th June 2024 Volkswagen and other automakers operating in South Africa are in talks with the state logistics company to revive a dilapidated rail line between the country’s commercial hub and a car export terminal 700 miles away. The companies, which include Isuzu Motors Ltd., would like to hire a private... →

VW vehicles on the assembly line in South Africa

Recovery in logistics sector continued in April despite ports being lashed by storms – Ctrack index

By: Irma Venter 12th June 2024 After declining in the first two months of the year, the Ctrack Transport and Freight Index (Ctrack TFI) continued its momentum in April to reach a level of 123.4 – an increase of 2.8% compared with March. This is also 1.5% above the levels seen a year ago. →

NLCC’s work to continue, freight sector poised to transform in next two years

By: Irma Venter 10th June 2024 Business Unity South Africa president Mxolisi Mgojo says he is confident that work within the National Logistics Crisis Committee (NLCC) will continue as political parties grapple to form a coalition government post the national elections held at the end of May. “We partner with the government of... →

Mxolisi Mgojo

Gautrain marks 14 years of operations

By: Creamer Media Reporter 10th June 2024 Rapid rail network Gautrain on June 8 celebrated its fourteenth year of operation, having, thus far, completed about 192.8-million passenger trips. “The idea of a high-speed rail network with an 80 km route between the North, South and East of the Gauteng province, sounded like a pipe dream to... →

Lack of public transportation integration undermining service delivery

By: Darren Parker 7th June 2024 A lack of proper integration with regard to urban public transportation systems has led to inefficiencies and duplications, with some routes and areas being overserved while others suffer from a complete lack of service, Aecom Africa transport operations leader and market sector leader transit... →

TFR welcomes prison sentences for convicted cable thieves

By: Sabrina Jardim 6th June 2024 State-owned Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) has welcomed the recent arrest and conviction of four men for theft of essential infrastructure on its rail network. The Thabazimbi Regional Court on May 31 sentenced the four men to 49 years each for various charges related to the theft of essential... →

Electricity, logistics reforms in the spotlight as coalition govt looms

By: Creamer Media Reporter 31st May 2024 Engineering News editor Terence Creamer discusses the coalition scenarios facing South Africa as the election results are being tallied and what this could mean for the reforms under way in electricity and freight logistics. →

Electricity, logistics reforms in the spotlight as coalition govt looms

Africa Finance Corporation signs MoU with Alstom to deliver rail project in the DRC

By: Darren Parker 30th May 2024 Infrastructure financier the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) and sustainable mobility company Alstom have signed a memorandum of understanding to propel the development of the Kinshasa MetroKin rail project in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The partnership was announced alongside the... →

Representatives from the AFC, Alstom and MetroKin sign MoU

Nedbank, Transnet mediation over swaps terminated

By: Tasneem Bulbulia 28th May 2024 Mediation between financial services group Nedbank and State-owned Transnet, in respect of interest rate swap transactions (swaps) between the parties that took place in December 2015 and March 2016, and which have been widely reported in the media for many years, has ended after it became... →

Air freight leads recovery in logistics sector in March, Ctrack index shows

By: Irma Venter 24th May 2024 After a notable decline in the first two months of the year, the Ctrack Transport and Freight Index (Ctrack TFI) in March increased to an index level of 119.7. This is an increase of 1.1% compared with February, and just marginally up on a year ago. →

About

Engineering News is a product of Creamer Media.
www.creamermedia.co.za

Other Creamer Media Products include:
Mining Weekly
Research Channel Africa
Polity

Newsletters

Sign up for our FREE daily email newsletter

Receive daily sector news alerts

More

Subscriptions

We offer a variety of subscriptions to our Magazine, Website, PDF Reports and our photo library.

Subscriptions are available via the Creamer Media Store.

View store

Advertise

Advertising on Engineering News is an effective way to build and consolidate a company's profile among clients and prospective clients. Email advertising@creamermedia.co.za

View options

Subscribe