NRZ to cash in on unused wagons

NRZ to cash in on unused wagons

 

Mako Jerera

 

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) will this week auction its disused wagons and other obsolete metals which have become expensive to repair.

 

Desired Liaison Auctioneers at NRZ headquarters has been engaged to conduct the auction in Bulawayo as well as in Harare this week.

 

Newly appointed spokesperson, Andrew Kunambura said proceeds from the public auction will be used to refurbish operating wagons and procurement of new ones.

 

“NRZ is a heavy user of metal, which is used in the manufacture of wagons and their respective components.

 

“Some of these wagons were acquired many years ago and are obsolete. Once this happens, the wagons are scrapped and from time to time the NRZ sells this scrap metal.” Kunambura said.

 

However, this is the first time NRZ is disposing of its scrap metal through the public auction system.

 

Previously, the NRZ disposed of its scrap metal through the tender process.

 

Kunambura added that auctioning is the most transparent way of asset disposal as all bids are called out to all participants and award is done in full view of everyone.

 

“Proceeds from the public auction will be used to refurbish wagons in use and procurement of new wagons.

 

“Viewing will be done at least a day before the auction and since wagons are scattered along the railway line in various places within the country, viewing will be for just a sample, in Harare and Bulawayo.

 

“Wagons will be sold using wagon number, estimated tonnage and location. Only ungraded scrap will be disposed of, which means it excludes wheels and axles as the organisation is intending to use the graded scrap for its induction furnace.” Kunambura explained.

 

Recently NRZ announced that it needs US$45 million to refurbish 84 coaches and purchase 45 brand new ones in order to resume its passenger service, which has been suspended since 2019 following an outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic.

 

It also needs at least nine locomotives for its inter-city nine routes and four are needed for its current routes.

 

 

NRZ plays a critical role in the transport sector where it conveys bulk cargo and passengers. The passenger service is vital in complementing the bulk transportation system at affordable costs.

 

The passenger business comprises of inter-city train service, commuter (intra-city) service, tourist (safari leisure) trains, parcels traffic, catering services and the Railways Museum.