State-owned rail operator Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) has lifted the force majeure it imposed on the export coal line on November 8.

The closure of the line followed the derailment of a fully-laden coal train, which occurred between the Bloubank and Nhlazatshe stations, causing extensive damage to infrastructure and rolling stock on both lines.

The force majeure impacted the service from mines to Richards Bay and, TFR admits, hampered the performance of contractual obligations by itself and coal export parties.

A joint recovery operation between Transnet, the coal export industry, and other stakeholders, worked around the clock to ensure the service line was restored to full operation efficiently and effectively,

This led to the reopening of both railway lines by November 19, however, Transnet is not yet in a position to resume normal services at full capacity on the coal line because certain critical restoration works remain outstanding.