2012-08-08 Metro train on way for Refurbishment

 10:20 - An unusual Metro train - actually no passangers. Locomotives E1818 & E1816 tow a selection of metro coaches which presumably will undergo refurbishment at Touws River where proper facilities to do so is available at the site of CTE (Commuter Transport Engineering).

2009-06-26: Shosholoza Meyl from Johannesburg arriving Bellville

10:25AM: Just through Stikland station, the Meyl is nearing Bellville Station.


The Shosholoza is headed by E1592 and E1816.









Shosholoza Meyl name explanation:

Anyone familiar with the history of migrant workers in South Africa will instinctively know that Shosholoza is the name of the popular traditional African song favoured particularly by hard working men whose work it was to lay railway lines. Meaning to push forward, endeavour or strive, it evokes a sense of pride. Today the song has become a favoured rallying cry of our sportsmen and women and their supporters.

Altogether it reflects a sense of joy and unity.

Imeyili is an colloquial term used to describe a long distance train. The term stems from the "Mail Trains" which, some 100 years ago, sped the mail from England landed in Cape Town to South African inland towns. By replacing Rail with Meyl (Mail) a warm sense of history is restored.

2009-06-19: Cement tanks coming in to Bellville Yard

10:50AM: E1816 and E1592 arrive with various freight wagons, including some Cement Tanks.




E1816 and E1592 going down the incline to pass under the Strand lines into Bellville yard.


The Cement Tanks are of two types - the lowest point in the middle or lowest points at both ends.