Eswatini Railways Gears Up to Run 84-Wagon Trains
Eswatini Railways has reached a significant operational milestone — a successful test run of an 84-wagon loaded magnetite train, marking a pivotal step toward increased efficiency and enhanced cargo throughput.
Eswatini Railways has reached a significant operational milestone in its freight transportation capacity. On 09 September 2025, a successful test run of an 84-wagon loaded magnetite train was conducted, marking a pivotal step toward increased efficiency and enhanced cargo throughput. This development reflects the organization’s commitment to optimizing rail infrastructure and supporting regional logistics growth.
The test train, operated by Transnet Freight Rail (TFR), travelled from Phalaborwa to Richards Bay through Eswatini and returned successfully. The purpose of the trial was to assess whether existing infrastructure within Eswatini could accommodate longer trains consisting of 84 wagons.
The results were largely positive. All crossing loops and stations within the Eswatini mainline were able to accommodate the extended train length, with the exception of Lavumisa Station, which was found to be shorter than required. Despite this limitation, operational planning confirmed that train crossings can still be effectively managed across the network.
An evaluation of crossing loops and station lengths was conducted to determine readiness for 84-wagon operations. The findings are summarized below:
| Crossing Loop / Station | Length |
|---|---|
| Mhlume | 1,007 m |
| Hlane | 1,060 m |
| Mpaka | 910 m |
| Lubhuku | 1,268 m |
| Phuzumoya | 929 m |
| Pumane | 1,290 m |
| Big Bend | 1,036 m |
| Nsoko | 941 m |
| Zibe | 1,279 m |
| Lavumisa | 797 m |
The data confirms that the majority of stations meet the operational requirements for longer trains, ensuring minimal disruption to scheduling and logistics. The 84-wagon train commanding a 5,292 Ton Payload is hauled by 3 powerful 44 class GE/TE constructed locomotives with each locomotive commanding a throughput of 4200 hp and having its maiden run in 2015 on the Nort-East Corridor now known as the Mineral Mining and Chrome (MMC) Business Unit with its traffic mainly originating from Phalaborwa(Pit) to both Richards Bay and Maputo Ports.
Following the successful trial, a comprehensive report was submitted to the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR). After review, the RSR granted approval for the official rollout of 84-wagon train operations. This approval signifies compliance with safety standards and reinforces confidence in the upgraded system.
The transition from 80-wagon to 84-wagon trains introduces measurable efficiency gains. Each train now carries an additional four wagons, translating to approximately 252 extra tons per trip. This increase will significantly enhance freight capacity without requiring additional train movements.
Eswatini Railways has outlined ambitious targets for the 2026–2027 financial year:
- Planned trains: 1,159 loaded trains
- Base tonnage: 5,842,368 tons
- Additional tonnage from extended wagons: 292,068 tons
- Total projected magnetite tonnage: Over 6 million tons
- Planned trains: 202 loaded trains
- Base tonnage: 1,016,064 tons
- Additional tonnage from extended wagons: 50,904 tons
- Combined increase: 342,972 tons
These projections demonstrate the substantial economic and operational benefits associated with the extended train configuration.
To support this transition, all train drivers have undergone certification to operate 84-wagon trains. Operations are now fully functional along the Komatipoort–Golela corridor, ensuring seamless integration of the longer trains into daily train service.
The successful introduction of 84-wagon trains marks a transformative moment for Eswatini Railways. By leveraging existing infrastructure and enhancing operational capacity, the organization is positioned to significantly increase freight volumes and improve overall efficiency. This milestone not only strengthens Eswatini’s rail transport capabilities but also contributes to regional trade and economic development.
Next: 168-Wagon Radio Distributed Power Test Train
As we continue to move the 160-empty-wagon, 6-locomotive front header from Richards Bay to Phalaborwa via Eswatini, watch the space as we plan a test train for the 168 Radio Distributed Power (RDP) Loaded Train from Phalaborwa to Richards Bay via Eswatini — scheduled after the June 2026 Shutdown (17–26 June 2026). Passing of this test train with the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) will be a gamechanger for both Eswatini Railways (ESR) and Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) for this Corridor.
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