HWANGE – A goods train derailed near Hwange on Saturday, the THIRD train accident in a week.

The Victoria Falls-bound train derailed near Thompson Junction at the very spot that a passenger train derailed only two weeks ago.

The National Railways of Zimbabwe blamed the latest crash on dilapidated rail infrastructure.

NRZ spokesperson Nyasha Maravanyika said no-one was injured in the incident.

“The last four wagons derailed but the train detached them and proceeded,” said Maravanyika told The Chronicle.

“There were no injuries at all. This has to do with our dilapidated infrastructure which basically needs rehabilitation and overhauling. This is the reason why the government has allowed NRZ to solicit for investors to ensure we revamp our rail system.”

The derailment forced the NRZ to cancel its passenger service to Victoria Falls from Bulawayo.

The NRZ also uses the same line for a special service for tourists, with great game views.

On November 11, a train derailed near Beitbridge after smashing into the trailer of haulage truck at a rail crossing. The accident blocked the Beitbridge-Masvingo road for several days.

On November 16, a goods train derailed near Cement Siding in Bulawayo – and poorly maintained tracks appeared to have been the cause.

In June, there was another derailment of a goods train near Cinderella suburb in Hwange town.