A scheduled annual maintenance shutdown affected part of South Africa's rail network for several days in November 2025.

The interruption took place on the Natal Corridor (NATCOR) that connects Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal with the Durban and Richards Bay ports.

The maintenance period started with a single-line closure from 18 November until 23 November, and will be followed by a double-line closure from 24 November to 27 November.

According to the rail operator, Transnet, the maintenance work is undertaken to improve network availability, enhance backup power supply, and strengthen theft prevention measures.

During the maintenance period, train movement will be suspended in several areas. The affected locations include Durban, Ladysmith, Heidelburg, Vereeniging, Isando, and Bloemfontein.

Transnet further reports that, during inspection, the “D-shed” container lines were declared unsafe for train operations, causing the technical team to suspend all container rail operations until the necessary repairs are complete.

According to the advisory, the estimated completion date for the repair works is 13 December 2025. In the interim, the terminal will continue to handle containers via road only.

Container rail transport to the port of Durban may experience delays during this period. However, operations are expected to return to normal after the work is concluded.

For the latest port and vessel statuses or situation updates, please refer to the seaexplorer alert map.