Force majeure declared on coal line to Richards Bay

A force majeure has been declared on the North Corridor – a coal export line to Richards Bay.

This after a train carrying coal en route to Richards Bay derailed near Ulundi on Tuesday.

ALSO READ: WATCH: Man alights from vehicle, runs into bush from elephant in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park

While Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) had instituted recovery plans following the derailment, the entity was forced to withdraw these efforts on Friday after reported acts of violence and disruptions.

“Work by joint Transnet and industry recovery teams at the site of the derailment has been significantly disrupted and delayed because of violent, extortion efforts by the Ulundi Business Forum.

“The business forum was invited to provide a list of all equipment and plant machinery that they are able to deploy to site as well as costings. Industry has contracted the Ulundi Business Forum for equipment to assist in the derailment recovery and the forum now insists on direct contracts with Transnet over and above what they have with industry,” TFR said in a statement.

The rail entity said it has rejected the demands which has led to alleged violence which include blocking of access roads and assault.

After lengthy discussions with all stakeholders, including the business forum – recovery operations however resumed on Saturday.

HAVE YOUR SAY

Like our Facebook page  and follow us on Twitter.

For news straight to your phone invite us:

WhatsApp – 060 784 2695

Instagram – zululand_observer