years
18 June 2007
Today trains will start to run on the tracks between East London and Amabele
for the first time in over 10 years. These trains will not be carrying any
passengers. They will be used to complete the comprehensive driver training
undertaken by Department of Roads and Transport. This phase of the driver
training follows an intensive two month training period undergone by the
drivers that includes:
* a refresher course in East London
* train handling on a train simulator at Esselenpark in Kempton Park
* safe working training on, over, under, or adjacent to railway lines near high
voltage equipment
* depot induction and standard operating procedures
* practical training and certification on locomotives.
MEC of Transport in the Eastern Cape, Mr Thobile Mhlahlo, says "The Kei Rail
line is one of the toughest railway lines to navigate and the department needs
to ensure that drivers are competent and comfortable with the train and the
line before they begin driving on the tracks. This extensive training programme
was therefore crucial and will be the determining factor for the commencement
of the Kei Rail passenger service; driver training and accreditation must be
satisfactorily completed first."
The department is also involved in a rail safety awareness campaign for
communities living along the line to ensure that they are aware of the dangers
associated with an operational railway line. MEC Mhlahlo continued saying, "We
urge all communities along the line to be vigilant and stay away from the
railway tracks, especially children because they are unaccustomed to seeing
trains on the tracks and at level crossings."
The objectives of the safety awareness campaign are:
* to raise awareness that there will be trains running on the line before
the service begins
* to inform communities along the line of the dangers associated with an
operational railway line
* to create awareness of safe rail behaviour in the communities along the
line
* to encourage communities to ensure that their livestock is kept away from the
tracks
* to raise awareness of the role of flag men at level crossings.
The campaign includes a poster campaign, radio and newspaper advertising,
informative pamphlets, school and community outreach activities.
For enquiries, contact:
Ncedo Kumbaca
Cell: 082 442 2388
Issued by: Department of Safety, Liaison, Roads and Transport, Eastern Cape
Provincial Government
18 June 2007
