This is to inform you of the impending total shutdown of the rail network that will affect some of The Blue Train departures.
The National (Trains) Operations Centre have informed all rail operators of a total shutdown of its network. This involves the rehabilitation of the rail line between Kimberley and De Aar. Preparations of this shutdown will commence on 30 July 2018 to 08 August 2018. During this shutdown, no rail operator (passenger or freight) will be allowed thoroughfare on these lines.
After months of intensive engagements and deliberations with the Operations Centre to seek alternatives such as re-routing the train via Bloemfontein, it was confirmed that this alternative line would also be affected – (In previous instances such as this, The Blue Train would be re-routed from De Aar to Noupoort, via Bloemfontein).
As a result of this necessary shutdown, we regret to inform you that the following Blue Train departures will be cancelled:
- 30 July 2018, Pretoria to Cape Town
- 01 August 2018, Cape Town to Pretoria
- 06 August 2018, Pretoria to Cape Town
- 08 August 2018, Cape Town to Pretoria
We can offer one of the following alternative dates – these are subject to availability
- 25 July 2018, Cape Town to Pretoria
- 13 August 2018, Pretoria to Cape Town
- 15 August 2018, Cape Town to Pretoria
- 20 August 2018, Pretoria to Cape Town
- 29 August 2018, Cape Town to Pretoria