Mapping South Africa’s transport challenges

South Africa faces a myriad of transport-related challenges such as road and rail infrastructure maintenance backlogs, the poor condition of road and rail public transport vehicles, poor public transport services and inadequate public transport in rural areas, all of which adversely affect other sectors and the country’s economic development. To help address these challenges, the CSIR is conducting a detailed analysis of the entire transport sector and is creating a comprehensive model of transport interactions between economic sectors. With Transnet being a key player in the country’s transport sector, the CSIR is also designing various specific, practical interventions that will assist Transnet in its operations.

The Transnet/CSIR partnership entails a joint research and development centre. Though this partnership, efficiency in logistics will be improved, thus lowering the cost of doing business in South Africa and the manufacturing of locomotives/components will stimulate South Africa’s manufacturing industry.

Research and development projects to help optimise Transnet operations

Having entered into a partnership with Transnet, the CSIR is involved in a range of projects to help the entity optimise its operations across the transport sector. These projects include the development of a new locally designed locomotive control system, refining laser refurbishment and the manufacturing processes for locomotive and wagon components, creating a streamlined business model for Transnet’s operations on the African continent and developing modelling and simulation software that will enhance Transnet’s wagon production line. In months to come, numerous additional Transnet partner projects will be announced.