Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager, the state-owned infrastructure entity overseeing South Africa’s rail network, has signed Rail Access Agreements with 11 train operating companies.
The additional capacity could rise to 52 million tonnes over the next five years, supporting a national target to grow rail volumes from about 180 million tonnes to 250 million tonnes by 2030.
The newly contracted operators are ARC South Africa, The Railway Corporation, TLD Marine, Menar Ports and Rail, Sharp Logistics, Barberry, Grindrod, Minrail, IRACEMA, Motheo Logistics and Interlinks. Their services cover coal, manganese, containers, fuel and general freight across five strategic corridors.
In December 2025, Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager introduced an Ad Hoc Slot application process to allocate network capacity outside the annual timetable cycle. The mechanism has already enabled new services, including a proposed short-haul route between Cato Ridge and Durban to reduce road congestion around the port area, with operations targeted to begin in May 2026.
Some of the 11 operators plan to begin services before the end of 2026, while the remainder are expected to enter operation during 2027. Feedback from operators and financial institutions is being incorporated into Network Statement Version 4, which is in the final stages of preparation.
