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The end of the Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe?
Transnet Limited has announced that the Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe train service operating between George and Mossel Bay will be terminated.
In its announcement Transnet said that it identified the Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe service as one of its non-core assets in 2007. Following extensive studies and stakeholder consultation, the company decided to follow an open tender process to find a new operator for the service.
"Unfortunately, this process could not identify a new operator and as a result, Transnet was left with no option other than to terminate the service subject to the required approval by the Minister of Public Enterprises in terms on the Public Finance Management Act - this has since been finalised." the statement said.
The Outeniqua Transport Museum in George will remain open to the public.
The George-to-Mossel Bay Line, on which the Choo-Tjoe service is currently operated, is part of the Southern Cape cluster of branch lines that have been identified to be concessioned to a private operator. This concessioning process is being undertaken by Transnet through an open, competitive process. Further announcements on branch line concessioning will follow in due course.
Transnet and the MEC for Finance, Economic Development and Tourism of the Provincial Government of the Western Cape, have been in discussions regarding the George-to-Knysna railway line, which was severely damaged in 2006 by seasonal floods. The intention is to ensure that tourism and other opportunities are unlocked on this line through the facilitation of the Provincial Government. Further details of this process will be announced in due course.
Commenting on the announcement Alan Winde, Western Cape MEC of Finance, Economic Development and Finance said that despite Transnet's announcement he remains resolute in his commitment to reviving the Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe service and ensuring that it remains a vital part of the South Cape's heritage and tourism offering.
Winde continued to say that Transnet's decision comes after an open tender process did not yield any positive applicants to take over its operations, which they state have become financially unviable.
However, Winde said that he is "eagerly" awaiting the final outcome negotiations with Transnet to take over the George to Knysna line. He concluded by saying that he will also keep a close eye on further developments regarding the privatisation process of other branch-lines.
*What are your thoughts on Transnet's announcement? Let us know by sending your comments.
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