Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) has successfully completed the recovery and reconstruction of the Cape Mainline, following severe storm damage and major washaways in the Western Cape in May 2026.

Heavy rainfall, strong winds and flooding on 11 and 12 May caused extensive damage to railway infrastructure, including five locations in the Worcester area and two washaways at Leeu-Gamka in the Karoo region.

As a result, sections of the line were closed for more than two months.

TRIM rapidly mobilised internal teams and external stakeholders, to restore the railway safely and minimise disruption to rail operations. The recovery involved rebuilding washed-away track formations and supporting infrastructure, reinstating track structures and overhead equipment, and replacing mast poles damaged by the storms.

A key milestone was achieved on 31 July 2026 when the Cape Mainline reopened to diesel-hauled trains. The line was fully reopened for electric trains in August 2026, following the completion and commissioning of the reinstated overhead track equipment.

“The reopening of the Cape Mainline reinforces TRIM’s commitment to maintaining a safe, reliable and resilient rail network and responding decisively to infrastructure disruptions caused by extreme weather,” said TRIM Chief Executive Moshe Motlohi.

The successful recovery reflects the resilience, technical expertise and commitment of the teams involved, supported by strong collaboration across Transnet and with external stakeholders.