The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has announced significant disruptions to its operations due to heavy rains that have washed away parts of the country’s railway lines.
In a statement, the state-run railway operator revealed that several rail lines have been severely impacted, particularly along the South East Line close to the country’s borders with Mozambique and South Africa.
“The National Railways of Zimbabwe wishes to inform the public, customers, and all stakeholders that due to the ongoing incessant rains, we are experiencing wash-aways on some parts of our lines, particularly on the South East Line,” the statement read.
The most affected sections are the Rutenga-Mbizi and Rutenga-Beitbridge lines, with the former having 360 metres of track washed away while the latter lost 120 metres of track.
“While we have encountered similar challenges in this corridor over the past few years, including on the Mozambican side, the current situation is the worst we have seen,” NRZ said, noting that the rains so far received in southeastern Zimbabwe have been uncharacteristic for a region that typically gets below-average rainfall each year.
It assured the nation that its personnel were working to repair the tracks and ensure the safe resumption of operations.
“Until repairs are completed, the affected section of the line will remain temporarily suspended.”
The suspension of service is expected to severely affect cargo transportation in these areas, with ripple effects across the nation.
The NRZ’s operational challenges have been compounded by mismanagement and vandalism of equipment and railway tracks, further exacerbating the difficulties faced by the railway operator.
JN/APA