Recovery efforts under way after KZN Transnet train collision
Transnet Freight Rail teams were dispatched to northern KwaZulu-Natal following the collision of two of their trains in Elubana on Sunday morning.
Two trains collided in Elubana, near Richards Bay, on 14 January 2024. Picture: Facebook/Transnet
DURBAN - Recovery efforts are under way on an essential Transnet Freight Rail line in KwaZulu-Natal following a collision between two trains.
Two trains collided in Elubana, near Richards Bay, on Sunday.
The line serves as an important corridor between Mpumalanga and the Port of Richards Bay for coal export.
Initial reports suggest one train rear-ended another that was stationary due to an alleged power outage in Richards Bay.
In a statement, Transnet said no serious injuries were reported, and staff involved in the collision were sent for medical observation.
While an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the accident, Eyewitness News understands the derailment comes shortly after Transnet announced plans to introduce additional trains to the north corridor.
This while the N2 highway has been a cash cow for truck owners, ferrying coal between Mpumalanga and Richards Bay.
Sources within the freight industry said while Transnet claimed the collision was a result of an accident, the possibility of sabotage couldn’t be ruled out, as truck owners would feel the pinch should their loads be lessened.