Transport Minister Barbara Creecy said the decision to allow private train operating companies access to Transnet’s rail network will stimulate economic growth.
Eleven private companies have been approved to transport freight on rail through allocated slots across Transnet’s 41 routes.
This means the State will now work with private operators in moving minerals and other goods by rail.
Barbara Creecy
Speaking at a media briefing in Pretoria on Friday, Creecy said Transnet will benefit from permitting private companies to use its freight rail network.
“The benefits of third-party access include, among other things, (I) improving utilisation of the network and thus increasing rail efficiency; (ii) reducing network unit costs by involving more operators; (iii) increasing revenue to contribute to investment in the maintenance and modernisation of the network, and (iv) reducing the external costs of freight logistics and improving the competitiveness of rail as a more environmentally friendly mode of transport,”said Creecy.
Creecy also said that allowing private companies to operate on the state’s rail network will create jobs.
“This is a significant step in our rail reform journey and makes open access to freight rail a reality in our country. It will contribute to a more efficient, reliable and sustainable rail system that can promote inclusive growth and ensure job retention and job creation,” said added.
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