The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has announced disruptions on the South East Line due to severe washaways caused by ongoing heavy rains. The relentless rainfall has overwhelmed existing drainage structures, significantly affecting sections of the railway.
The Rutenga-Mbizi section experienced a washaway spanning 360 metres, while 120 metres of tracks along the Rutenga-Beitbridge line were also washed away, with gullies as deep as two metres forming in some areas. These regions, which typically receive below-average rainfall, have seen unusually high precipitation attributed to climate change.
The natural topography of the area makes it particularly susceptible to such incidents, and this washaway has been described as the worst recorded in recent years, surpassing previous occurrences, including similar events on the Mozambican side.
NRZ has assured the public that infrastructure teams are working tirelessly to restore the affected sections. The realignment of the line is 90% complete, with reballasting and the application of quarry fines currently underway. Ballast and quarry fines from the Nalatale Quarry Mine in Shangani are en route to the site.
The NRZ expects the repairs to be finalised, and full functionality of the affected line restored, by Saturday, 18 January 2025. Operations will resume once the safety of the infrastructure is confirmed.
