Transnet draws the line on railway accidents

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Pretoria - Transnet Freight Rail is set to embark on a campaign to warn motorists and pedestrians about the dangers of not observing safety precautions when approaching or crossing railway lines.

The campaign, which starts on 29 March until 5 April, is aimed at sensitising the public during the Easter period and reducing the number of accidents at level crossings.

"This campaign is a joint initiative by Transnet Freight Rail, the Railway Safety Regulator, law enforcement authorities and community forums. It encompasses the element of educating the public, where educational material is handed out at the identified level crossings," said Transnet Freight Rail spokesperson Sandile Simelane.

The campaign will focus on 46 level crossing areas that have been identified as high risk throughout South Africa.

Last year, there were 79 incidents at level crossings, which resulted in the loss of five lives and 32 people being injured.

"Transnet Freight Rail would like to appeal to the community to assist in eradicating these tragic and unnecessary incidents by obeying at all times the traffic laws governing rail level crossings," said Simelane.