Due to severe weather events experienced in various parts of the country, specifically Kwa-Zulu Natal in recent weeks, Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) has invoked Force Majeure for a seven (7) week period.
Who will be affected?
All Inbound shipments arriving in Durban port and making use of Transnet freight rail services for on-carriage to inland terminals within South Africa
Background
Major flooding from the 8th April 2022 in and around the Port of Durban (KwaZulu-Natal) caused major damage to infrastructure, power suppliers, telecommunication providers and water treatment plants. Local authorities have alerted the military to assist with disaster management teams
Currently, rail operations remain suspended between Durban and Cato Ridge, the North and South Coast Lines. Infrastructure has been destroyed by washaways and mudslides, particularly in areas where communities have encroached on the rail reserve.
The Head of the National Disaster Management Centre has classified the magnitude and severity of the damage caused by the severe weather events that resulted in the loss of life and damage to property, infrastructure and the environment, as a National Disaster.
Impact
TFR has invoked Force Majeure due to the severe weather events. TFR have confirmed they will take all reasonable steps to limit and minimise the effect of the Force Majeure event on the performance of its obligations, and any decisions taken by it during the event of Force Majeure shall be directed towards the execution of its obligations as far as possible.
Transnet will implement contingency arrangements and make every effort to ensure that immediate relief, recovery, and reconstruction measures are put in place to effectively deal with the effects of this disaster.
Implementation date
The declaration of Force Majeure is for a period of seven (7) weeks with immediate effect. Preliminary estimated time to resume single line operations on the mainline is seven (7) weeks. At the end of 9 June 2022, TFR will review the situation and advise accordingly in terms of further actions to be taken.
Santa Fe recommendations
If you have any shipment destined for Port of Entry Durban or onward terminal Johannesburg, please contact Santa Fe South Africa for an alternative solution.
It would be advisable to inform your clients/assignees of this situation immediately so an alternative solution can be implemented.
For more information or assistance please contact:
Adele Steyn
Move Manager
Santa Fe Relocation
South Africa
M + 27 83 415 3287
E adele.steyn@santaferelo.com
