Thefts and vandalism of equipment and infrastructu...

Thefts and vandalism of equipment and infrastructure continue to dog NRZ

Patience Muchemwa

The National Railways of Zimbabwe has raised concern over the increase in theft and vandalism of rail material in the country.

NRZ said the theft and vandalism of rail materials is hindering the development of the company.

In an interview with Zim Now, Public Affairs and Stakeholder Relations Manager, Andrew Kunambura said the destruction leads to long turnaround delays and affects the viability of business.

This comes as four men were arrested in Zvishavane after they used an excavator to create an illegal level crossing and started digging for gold along the tracks.

The men damaged sleepers and 10 metres of rail in the process.

In another case, a Bulawayo man, Joseph Chirawu, was arrested after he was found in possession of one steel sleeper, 15 fisher plates and six coach screws.

He is expected to appear in court soon and, if convicted, will face up to 10 years in jail.

Meanwhile, some villagers were intercepted by NRZ security while planting poles of the track to disrupt a train ferrying sugar cane in Triangle in the lowveld.

Kunambura said NRZ is taking measures to deal with the culprits through working strongly with the Zimbabwe Republic Police.

“Vandalism especially of rail infrastructure can cause derailments, which may have serious consequences on crews and may lead to loss of cargo,”

“Our very efficient loss control and security branch is working hand in hand with the police to ensure all culprits are brought to book.

“This is evidenced by the increase in arrests and also the judiciary has come on board with stronger sentences that deter would-be offenders,” Kunambura said.

The government in July this year injected capital to the tune of US$115 million for the acquisition of rolling stock, including locomotives and wagons, a development which NRZ Board chairperson Advocae Martin Dinha confirmed.

“Under the Second Republic, we have seen investment in railway increasing. So, we have seen the government injecting US$81 million for the procurement of new wagons and passenger coaches and US$43 million dedicated towards the rehabilitation of the railway line.

“Since 1992, this has been the most significant investment in the railway line showing how the government values NRZ as an economic enabler,” said Advocate Dinha.

However, these investments continue to be threatened by the vandalism and thefts which have remained some of the major challenges faced by the NRZ over the years.

Recently, a man was shot and injured after being caught by NRZ security officers vandalising telephone poles and hangers in Headlands, Manicaland Province.

The suspect was arrested and handed over to the Zimbabwe Republic Police while his other accomplices escaped.

The NRZ has since introduced employment incentives for whistle-blowers who provide information leading to the recovery of stolen property as a way of effectively dealing with theft and vandalism of the State-owned company’s equipment and infrastructure.