Transnet tests reefer container train to help reduce traffic in Cape Town

In an effort to reduce traffic congestion and the wear-and-tear on Cape Town’s roads, Transnet successfully tested a reefer container train from an inland location to the port at the coast on February 6.

The pilot project, which was a collaboration between the transporter’s two operating divisions — Ports Terminals and Freight Rail — and one of their clients, saw 20 containers hauled from the Belcon Inland Terminal in Bellville to the Cape Town Container Terminal at the coast.

Transnet plans to gradually increase the number of containers hauled in this fashion as the demand from customers and cargo owners grows.

This initiative brings about much-needed relief on the roads, moves goods more efficiently to the ports, and reduces the cost of doing business. pic.twitter.com/Q6XmKq7TMK

— Transnet SOC Ltd (@follow_transnet) February 6, 2021

The train is capable of moving 36 containers at a time, while a truck is only capable of carrying one container per trip, according to Engineering News.

The project signals the transporter’s desire to shift from road to rail and improve efficiency.

“The collaboration between two Transnet operating divisions – port terminals and freight rail – supports the company’s strategy for a modal shift from road to rail, and introduces much-needed improvements in the entire supply chain,” said Ayanda Shezi, Transnet’s spokesperson.

Picture: Twitter/@follow_transnet