Work on the line is preliminary to a comprehensive survey: Outeniqua Choo Tjoe Pty Ltd (OCT)

Oteniqua Choo Tjoe Pty Ltd (OCT) wishes to address recent public enquiries and commentary regarding works currently being conducted on the railway line.

We are pleased to confirm that OCT has been formally awarded the concession. Comprehensive processes and planning are already underway. While we will not elaborate on the specific details at this stage, we want to reassure all stakeholders that a concentrated and deliberate effort is being applied to every step and every phase, with the overarching goal of successfully restoring and operating the line always firmly in mind.

The current works, being carried out by our appointed perway subcontractor, consist of the systematic clearing of the line. These activities are both technical and investigative in nature. Because the precise condition of the terrain and surrounding areas remains largely unknown until physically inspected, no fixed scope of work can be defined at this early stage.

As each section is cleared, detailed information and data are collected daily from the areas completed. This information is essential for the accurate planning and implementation of the full perway rehabilitation programme. The approach ensures that all future decisions are based on verified, site-specific facts rather than assumptions. It is for this reason that we have intentionally deployed a smaller, more compact specialist team during the initial startup phases.

In addition, strict regulatory and safety requirements govern our operations. We are legally permitted to commence works only within the approved framework and only once sections of the line have been assessed and deemed safe. All activities are therefore being conducted strictly in accordance with the applicable legal regulations governing access to, and works on, the railway line. These regulations exist to protect both workers and the public, and OCT is fully compliant with them at all times.

At the same time as the line is being cleared of vegetation, management is actively pursuing front-end engineering on the bridges, including Kaaimans and the Knysna Estuary bridges, to ensure that they can be made safe for operations. 

We remain absolutely committed to delivering a successful concession that will bring long-term benefit to the wider community. To achieve this, we respectfully ask for your understanding and continued support for the methodical approach we have adopted. The patience shown now will ensure a safer, more sustainable, and ultimately far more beneficial outcome for everyone in the future.

We sincerely thank members of the public, local authorities, and all stakeholders for their interest and support. We look forward to welcoming you on board as we progress toward the successful reopening of the line.

For any further official enquiries, please contact OCT directly through the channels provided on our website.