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Transnet completes 95 electric locomotives

Transnet has completed assembling 95 electrical locomotives as part of its long-term fleet renewal programme, President Jacob Zuma said on Thursday.

"We are pleased to join Transnet to witness and celebrate the completion and delivery of 95 electric locomotives, delivered by Transnet in collaboration with partners CSR Zhuzhou Electric Locomotives Company," Zuma said.

He was speaking at the unveiling of the 95th electric locomotive which was assembled at Transnet's engineering Koedoespoort Plant in Tshwane.

Eighty-five of the locomotives were assembled in South Africa.

"This will contribute to the development of local industries by stimulating local commerce, strengthening industrial cycles, as well as building up the manufacturing capacity of the rail industry," Zuma said.

At least 65 percent of the R2.7 billion contract value of the project had been committed to local supplier development.

A total of 190 people were trained in China and 260 people were employed in assembling the locomotives.

Zuma said the training would ensure that Transnet had the necessary capability to effectively maintain the locomotives over their economic lifespan, thereby sustaining local jobs.

Transet had partnered with a broad-based black economic empowerment company which included a black woman-owned company and a community trust.

The successful achievement of the delivery of 95 locomotives set a platform for Transnet to deliver on the acquisition of 1064 locomotives, which it announced last year, he said.

"Our aim is also to see the country building up the capacity and capability to manufacture its own locomotives in the future."

He said during a recent meeting with the African heads of state at an African Union summit, South Africa was nominated "to champion the manufacturing of rolling stock for the continent".

He commended Transnet's transition to a low carbon freight system.

"This will help reduce emissions and save electricity."

The fleet would also assist in transporting goods on rail more efficiently, Zuma said.

"This will advance government's objective of shifting the transportation of goods from road to rail."

In May, Transnet received approval to begin the manganese expansion project which would provide the necessary rail and port infrastructure for the programme.

Up to 25 percent of the volumes required were reserved for emerging and junior miners.

"Affordable access to the Transnet rail and port export system will improve their viability and sustainability," Zuma said.

 

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