Transnet Battles with Copper Cable Theft Crisis

The South African state-owned entity Transnet is facing a crisis that has far-reaching implications for the country’s economy and infrastructure. Since March 2019, an astounding 4,633 kilometers of copper cables have been stolen from the company. This length is comparable to the breadth of the continental United States. Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan disclosed these alarming figures in response to a Parliamentary enquiry.

The theft and vandalism of the copper cables are having devastating consequences on the efficiency of the nation’s freight rail network, which plays an integral role in moving goods to and from ports. Recent figures indicate that approximately 75% of Transnet’s rail circuits are inoperative due to these relentless criminal activities.

Stellenbosch University’s Professor Jan Havenga illustrates the severity of the situation, emphasizing the rapid regression of South Africa’s rail infrastructure. The decay is exemplified by the Durban-Johannesburg rail corridor, which has been reduced from an intended capacity of 70 trains a day to fewer than ten.

Such a drastic reduction in capacity has seen the amount of freight transported by rail plunge to levels not witnessed since the Second World War. These idling railways have consequently become easy targets for vandals and thieves, further exacerbating the problem.

Preventing cable theft is not an easy task. The experts suggest that maintaining active railway corridors is part of the solution. The presence of trains disrupts criminal activities; however, this measure must be reinforced by improved security and stronger community engagement.

Transnet’s Chief Commercial Officer, Bonginkosi Mabaso, notes that despite significant losses over the years, there has been a reduction in stolen cables in 2023 compared to the previous year, due to increased efforts and collaborations.

The impact of these operational challenges on the economy is substantial. Havenga's GAIN Group estimates that the South African economy is losing around R1 billion per day due to inefficiencies and reduced exports. This translates to an annual GDP loss of approximately 4.9%, or R353 billion.

In summary, the disappearance of copper cables from Transnet's railways illuminates a dire situation that warrants immediate and effective response mechanisms. Both the organization and the government recognize the need for heightened security and system enhancements to restore operational capacities and protect the South African economy from further decline.