TransNamib Responds Swiftly to Heavy Rains Impacting Railway Network
Namibia’s national railway operator, TransNamib Holdings Limited, has been working tirelessly to address the damage caused by recent heavy rains that have disrupted sections of the railway network, particularly in the southern and western regions of the country. The company has deployed civil engineering teams to assess and repair the affected areas, ensuring minimal disruption to freight services while prioritizing safety.
Abigail Raubenheimer, TransNamib’s Manager of Corporate Communications, emphasized that safety remains the company’s top priority. “No train movement will take place on affected lines until they have been fully inspected and deemed safe for operation,” she stated. The line between Arandis and Usakos, one of the impacted routes, was reopened on Saturday afternoon following swift repairs by the engineering team. However, with more rain expected, TransNamib is closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety and reliability of its operations.
In response to the challenges posed by the rainy season, TransNamib has intensified rail inspections and increased monitoring of vulnerable areas across its network. Train crews have also been placed on high alert to detect and report any potential damage to railway infrastructure. These proactive measures reflect TransNamib’s commitment to maintaining the safe and reliable movement of goods across Namibia.
The heavy rains come at a time when the Namibian government has invested N\$300 million into TransNamib’s operations to sustain its activities and support its ambitious growth plans. The company aims to increase its annual cargo transport capacity from 1.5 million tonnes to 4 million tonnes within the next five years. This investment is part of a broader strategy to modernize Namibia’s railway infrastructure and enhance its role as a key player in regional logistics.
TransNamib operates a fleet of 67 locomotives and has been actively working to upgrade its infrastructure and equipment. Last year, the company secured a N\$2.6 billion loan from the Development Bank of Namibia and the Development Bank of Southern Africa. The funds will be used to purchase new locomotives, multipurpose wagons, and to develop infrastructure, including training employees on the advanced technology that will accompany these upgrades.
Despite facing challenges such as aging infrastructure and financial constraints, TransNamib has demonstrated resilience and a commitment to improving its services. The recent rains have tested the company’s ability to respond to emergencies, but the swift action taken by its engineering teams highlights its dedication to ensuring uninterrupted freight services. The reopening of the Arandis-Usakos line is a testament to the company’s efficiency and readiness to address unforeseen disruptions.
TransNamib’s efforts to modernize its operations and expand its capacity are critical for Namibia’s economic growth. The railway network plays a vital role in transporting bulk goods, including mining products, across the country and beyond its borders. By investing in infrastructure and adopting proactive measures to address challenges, TransNamib is positioning itself as a reliable and efficient logistics partner for the region.
As Namibia continues to experience unpredictable weather patterns, the importance of a robust and well-maintained railway network cannot be overstated. TransNamib’s swift response to the recent washaways and its ongoing modernization efforts underscore its commitment to supporting the country’s economic development while ensuring the safety and reliability of its services.
