GEORGE NEWS - Many steam enthusiasts and locals who have always treasured the wonderment of a trip in the Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe along the coast between George and Knysna have become despondent about this rail line ever being revived again, but apparently there is still a ray of hope.

Transnet Freight Rail confirmed this week that a tender process for the restoration and operation of the 67km line is underway. 

After the closure of the line following severe flood damage in 2006, a private consortium, Classic Rail, came to the fore with a proposal to operate the Choo-Tjoe steam train and line on a private basis. Initially it looked as if they would be granted a concession to have train services on the track restored, but in 2020 Transnet stopped this process and put the operation of the line out to tender.

The estimated time for the outcome was February 2023, but, according to Transnet Freight Rail head of communications Mary Papaya, the tender was readvertised in April as some tender documents did not meet certain requirements.

The request was for proposals for "the supply, concession and transport of Transnet-owned heritage rolling stock, and the use of permanent way and real estate for rail tourism and freight purposes on the line for a period of up to 25 years".

"The technical evaluation of bids has already been completed and the governance processes are being finalised," said Papaya.

Martin Hatchuel, spokesperson for Classic Rail, did not want to comment on whether their bid involved restoring the whole line, including Kaaimans bridge. "We cannot commit to anything till we know the outcome of the tender," he said.

Kaaimans Bridge dangerous to cross

Concerns have been raised about hikers using the Kaaimans bridge, which has become dangerous to cross because of its extreme deterioration. Papaya said signs and razor wire fencing have been installed since 2021 to warn and prevent public access.

"Our investigations show that the signs are being removed, either as acts of vandalism or by trespassers who want to gain access to the bridge."

She said Rail Network is in the process of installing a more solid structure to barricade access to the bridge. 

"The public needs to understand the danger of trespassing on that bridge. We are also deploying our team to inspect the signs and fencing every two months. TFR Security is to conduct regular patrols for that bridge as well, and anyone found trespassing will face arrest and prosecution." 

She appealed to the public to refrain from accessing the bridge because of the danger it poses.

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