Train derails: wagons linger in lagoon
There is no urgency to remove the wreckage.
Update: September 12, 5pm
THE four train wagons which went off the side of the bridge at Banana Beach and plunged into the lagoon two weeks ago have not as of today, Thursday, September 12, been removed. However, the railway line has been repaired and is fully operational.
Eleven of the train’s 27 empty wagons derailed while the train was en route to Transnet’s premises in Durban. The train’s engines stayed on the track, but four wagons plunged into the lagoon and another seven toppled onto the sideof the track. The train driver and his assistant were not injured.
Transnet Freight Rail’s senior manager of corporate affairs, Selby Dlamini said the wagons would be removed, but was unable to give a specific date when this would be done.
“Removal of the wagons is not a priority at this stage, as they are not a threat to the environment, nor are they obstructing operations,” he said. Although the walkway to the beach is still accessible, it has been damaged and is in need of repair.
Update: September 3, 12.30pm
It is believed that 11 of the train’s 27 wagons derailed in yesterday’s incident. The wagons were empty. The diesel leak from the engine was stopped late yesterday by Hibiscus Coast firemen. The engine is thought to have been carrying around 2 000 litres of diesel. Unconfirmed reports say it appears as if the railway line itself was loose and when the train approached, lifted and struck the train’s engine.
Update: 4.35pm
THREE coaches appear to have fallen from the bridge into the river below. It is thought the driver braked sharply, causing the derailment. The engine is still on the tracks. The area has been cordoned off as there are concerns about the safety of the bridge. No injuries have been reported. Or reporter says the smell of diesel is overwhelming, an indication the engine may be leaking.
September 2, 4pm
SOUTH Coast Herald reporters are on their way to Banana Beach, where a train derailment has been reported.
More in-depth information about the accident is not yet available but, according initial reports, it appears that only one or two carriages at the back of the train have come off the tracks. Emergency vehicles have been dispatched to the scene.
