Heavy haul rail projects to benefit African Energy’s Botswana coal

Heavy haul rail projects to benefit African Energy’s Botswana coal - Energy Business Review

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."