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Franklin-Matatiele Branch LineThis 77 km branch line was opened in 1924 as part of
providing
rail transport to the Eastern Cape. Over the years,
proposals have been made to connect it with the Maclear
branch but this has not materialised. Like Kokstad,
Matatiele has become an important distribution point for
general traffic to places such as Mt Fletcher and Lesotho,
but the branch has not been operated for freight traffic
in a meaningful way since the Cedarville Liquid Fuel Depot
ceased using rail in 2005.
The line has a 1 in 45 grade with the sharpest curve
having a 151 metre radius. It is laid with 30 kg short-
length jointed rail on steel sleepers, having a minimum of
ballast. While there is no regular train service, the line
is in reasonable condition.
The Transnet 'Phelophepa'Health Care Train has operated
over the branch recently, and it would be possible to again
utilise the branch for freight traffic. This possibility
requires urgent attention. The possibility of railing
liquid fuel once again must be investigated since it is
labelled a hazardous chemical, and such traffic should not
be on road when a rail alternative is available. For Details of
Volumes and Commodities Received
and Forwarded [Table 6]CLICK HERE
Old Matatiele station
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