Vongai Masuka

A National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) freight train bound for Mozambique derailed in the Makambe area of Chikombedzi yesterday, following intense flash flooding which compromised the stability of the railway tracks.

The incident occurred after a period of torrential rainfall in the region, which resulted in a washaway, a phenomenon where floodwaters erode the soil and gravel foundation (the formation) supporting the rail line.

Without its structural base, the track gave way under the weight of the heavy cargo, causing several wagons to veer off the rails.Initial reports from the site confirm that there were no injuries or loss of life.

However, the derailment caused damage to the rolling stock.Several wagons, which were transporting high-value minerals including coal and chrome, sustained structural damage, with some cargo spilling onto the surrounding area.

NRZ spokesperson Andrew Kunambura confirmed the development, stating that the parastatal acted swiftly to contain the situation.

“Emergency response and recovery teams have already been dispatched to the site in Chikombedzi,” Kunambura told the media.

“Our technical teams are currently on the ground conducting a full assessment and have already begun efforts to restore the affected section of the line.”

The Chikombedzi corridor is a vital link for Zimbabwe’s mineral exports, particularly for moving chrome and coal to the Mozambican coast for international shipping.