The Road Freight Association (RFA) acknowledges that “the Minister of Transport, Ms Barbara Creecy, has approved the publishing of the Transnet Network Statement for South Africa’s rail network. This document enables open access to the rail network for third-party operators.”
A Crossroads for Rail
This development raises questions: Are we on the cusp of transformative progress, or will this devolve into disputes and inefficiencies, similar to the issues witnessed with third-party operators at the Port of Durban?
A Call for Revolutionary Change
The RFA has long advocated for a comprehensive overhaul of South Africa’s rail operations. Despite its current challenges, the country’s rail network boasts significant potential, with its extensive reach and pockets of state-of-the-art infrastructure. Unlocking this potential could position the rail sector as a key driver of economic growth and job creation.
Key Questions for the Future
Critical concerns remain about the readiness of Transnet and the rail system for this change:
1. Can Transnet establish an environment conducive to efficient third-party operations?
2. Is the rail infrastructure—including signaling, capacity, sidings, warehousing, and security—prepared to handle increased activity?
3. Are the current train sets sufficient, or must third-party operators provide their own?
4. Who will mediate disputes between third-party operators or between them and Transnet?
The Challenge of Freight Integration
While road transport currently handles a significant share of freight, a seamless integration of road and rail systems is essential. Failures—whether systemic or operator-related—must not disrupt the national logistics network.
The RFA has consistently emphasized the need for rail to shoulder its share of the freight load. The consequences of its failure are evident in the strain placed on the country’s roads, which were not designed to endure the current levels of traffic and axle loads, let alone overloading.
The impact on towns along major routes has been mixed. While increased freight traffic boosts local business activity, it also causes significant wear and tear on infrastructure.
A Step in the Right Direction
Publishing the network statement marks a pivotal step. The RFA encourages prospective third-party operators to thoroughly review the statement and engage with the Department of Transport to help restore rail operations to a viable and efficient state.
Opportunities for road transport remain abundant, and the long-term landscape of logistics will undoubtedly evolve. However, achieving a reliable, efficient, secure, and affordable rail system is foundational to this transformation.
Looking Ahead
The RFA will closely monitor developments in 2025, a year critical to reshaping South Africa into a thriving logistics hub. Achieving this vision depends on the effective collaboration of all transport modes.
By now, it should be indisputable: road and rail must work symbiotically to support economic growth and create wealth through employment.