Fiery tracks

The burning wreckage of three decommissioned train cars at the old Transnet work inspector station was a cold reminder that the fire season has yet to pass.

A seemingly insignificant veld fire spread to the old train cars within minutes, and set them ablaze.

Witnesses to the incident explained they had not paid any heed to the veld fire, as it was small and did not seem to pose a threat, due to a ‘lack of wind’.

Allegedly, a sudden change in the direction and strength of the wind fuelled the fire which quickly spread to the workstations and train cars.

Although employees fought the blaze as they waited for Protection Services firefighters to arrive, the flames quickly laid waste to the old wooden structures, leaving behind a smouldering carcass of what had once been a part of history.

Firefighters managed to quell the flames and prevented it from spreading to the nearby work stations and other train cars in the vicinity.

Witnesses to the incident speculated the fire was not simply a run-away veld fire, and alleged the fire had been an excuse to get rid of old equipment.

However, on-scene officials shot down this theory.

Residents are urged to take note of even the smallest of fires in open areas, as it could lead to devastating consequences.