George Maponga
Masvingo Bureau
A National Railways of Zimbabwe goods train bound for Mozambique has derailed in the Makambe area of Chikombedzi following heavy rains that eroded the railway foundation.
No fatalities or injuries were reported in the incident.
Preliminary assessments indicate that several wagons of the Maputo-bound train sustained damage.
The train was transporting coal and chrome when it derailed due to a washout that affected the railway formation in the St Johns area of Makambe.
NRZ spokesperson Mr Andrew Kunambura, confirmed the accident, stating that a recovery team had been mobilised.
He assured that the railway line is expected to be reopened within the next 48 hours.
“There are no injuries or fatalities, and the derailment was caused by a washaway that disrupted the railway formation.
“This was a result of flash floods that were experienced after heavy rainfall in Chikombedzi,” said Mr Kunambura.
A washaway occurs when floodwater erodes the foundation of a railway line, often washing away ballast and leaving the track suspended and unstable.
According to Mr Kunambura, this type of occurrence is common across railway infrastructure worldwide.
The extent of damage to the railway line and wagons is still being assessed, but officials are working swiftly to address the situation and restore normal operations.
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