International Railroad Discussion > Cullinan ,Pretoria.South Africa derail....track stolen

http://www.timeslive.co.za/local/2017/03/21/Train-derailed-due-to-stolen-tracks1

Hate it when that happens...

Was it theft or was it an official removal that no one told anybody about. Either, or both, can happen in many countries.

Would also be curious if the rail went somewhere to be used or simply to the Steel scrap re-seller for cash.

This happened a few months ago and is the second time track has been deliberately removed on this branch causing a derailment of a steam hauled passenger train. The previous incident resulted in significant damage to the loco. This is done deliberately by vandals who sell the rail for profit. The government seems helpless or more likely unwilling to do anything about it (read into this what you want). So far no one has been seriously injured but these actions of a few who should be locked up could have resulted in much worse. The entire country of S.A. has pretty much gone to crap. Crime is everywhere and those in power don't seem to care. And don't even get me started on why preserved steam in the country has largely vanished. BTW, these are not necessarily my opinions. Details of the derailments have come from the Friends of the Rail website.

So said to see. Perhaps a track patrol ahead of the train in a hi rail vehicle could find these situations in advance?

That's a danged good pilot on that steamer, cows or no cows!!

South Africa continues to consume itself.

Sold the rail for profit ???? Of course they did, they had no cost in there so it is all profit.