14 May 2007
Today marks the start of a "massive rail safety awareness campaign" as part
of the Eastern Cape Department of Roads and Transport's preparations for the
testing of train drivers on the refurbished line between East London and
Mthatha.
This initiative forms part of our "Back to Rail" Strategy and the
preparations for the introduction of the Kei Rail Passenger Service between
these two towns, which is expected to commence before the end of July 2007.
Already four train drivers have received a "refresher course" and this
morning, they started a trolly trip from Cambridge in East London at 07h00 and
are expected to reach Mthatha this afternoon. These drivers were trained in
Pretoria using simulators and will now start driving locomotives on the
line.
This extensive training programme is informed by the fact that the Kei Rail
line is one of the toughest railway lines to navigate and we need to ensure
that drivers are competent and comfortable with the terrain and the line before
they begin driving on the tracks.
The testing of drivers will commence on 21 May 2007 until we are satisfied
that they are ready to undertake this mammoth task of providing alternative
public transport for all our people.
We felt that it was prudent for us to embark on a massive rail safety
campaign, because services on this line have not been active for many years and
it is, therefore, imperative that a campaign of this magnitude be implemented
to ensure that communities living along the line are safe.
The objectives of this 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, particularly children
* 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.
Enquiries:
Ncedo Kumbaca
Cell: 082 442 2388
Issued by: Department of Roads and Transport, Eastern Cape Provincial
Government
14 May 2007
