Gale force winds have blown debris on train tracks and overhead traction equipment

The inclement weather has affected train services in parts of the Western Cape.

COURTESY: PRASA WC

According to Metrorail Western Cape, the gale force winds have blown debris on tracks and overhead traction equipment.

‘’The Stellenbosch and Fish Hoek services will be affected. Our assessment is that the repairs cannot be effected on the OHTE at the moment due to potential risks of the strong winds versus working at heights,’’ said Zino Mihi, Metrorail Western Cape spokesperson.

Train lines that were affected:

Northern line :

·        Bellville – Eerste Rivier

·        Strand and

·        Stellenbosch – du Toit

Giving an update on Monday afternoon, Mihi says the entire Southern corridor will not operate, including the Cape Flats line.

‘’There are three issues that affect the service on the South line - A concrete mass pole fell off at Fish Hoek, which is affecting the OverHead Traction Equipment (OHTE) network. This is the OHTE network that supplies power to the trains; The distribution (33kV) line broke off from the suspension. These wires feed all the traction sub-stations on the Southern and Cape Flats Line, and; We lost the signal supply (11 kV) transmission lines due to the trees that are touching the overhead wires,’’ said Zino Mihi, Metrorail Western Cape spokesperson.

‘’We advise our customers to seek alternative transport arrangements in affected areas. Regular updates on our digital platforms (Twitter, Facebook, WhatsApp and Instagram) will be provided,’’ she added.

 

Done By: Mitchum George