Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) said that in 2015, the construction is set commence on the 105km heavy-haul coal rail link between Botswana and South Africa, immediately after the completion of feasibility studies.

The construction is a part of a R300 billion infrastructure investment program initiated by TFR.

Approximately R40 billion has been allocated by TFR for the construction of this rail link which will link into existing coal heavy-haul railway lines.

Designed to carry 40-80 million tons per year, the rail link will transport coal from Botswana into South Africa for state-electricity generator Eskom, or exported through the seaborne market.

Gama said, "We are planning to develop the Richards Bay Coal Terminal to support the expected [volumes] from Botswana and the Waterberg coalfield in South Africa."

Last month, the Governments of Namibia and Botswana have entered into a bilateral agreement for the construction of the 1,500km heavy-haul Trans-Kalahari Railway (TKR) with an estimated capital cost of approximately N$100bn ($10bn).

The construction work is likely expected to take five years.

 

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