WESTERN Cape Finance MEC Alan Winde is meeting Transnet acting chief executive Chris Wells in Johannesburg today to discuss the future of the Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe and the Cape Town port.

The meeting follows months of speculation about whether or not Transnet will finally pull the plug on Africa‘s last scheduled steam train and a major tourist icon of the Southern Cape.

“I am of the strong view that this icon needs to be preserved, and will do everything in my power to ensure it operates again. To this end, I will be discussing possible privately funded mechanisms for its survival with the acting CEO of Transnet, after which time I hope to garner expressions of interest from business persons and the community affected by the train‘s running,” Winde said yesterday.

He was hopeful the public would come to the Choo- Tjoe‘s rescue.

He said that since the service shut down last week for routine maintenance, causing a stir among tourism operators and steam train enthusiasts across the world, he had had contact with dozens of people to “express their support of the train‘s continued operations and their desire to play a part in its survival”.

“The provincial government is very willing to play a facilitative role, or any other role necessary, to ensure the successful reinstatement of this attraction,” Winde said.

Transnet wants to shut the train service down as it does not form part of its core rail freight businesses. The line between Knysna and George was damaged in floods in 2006 and 2007 and the train has since been running between George and Mossel Bay as the anticipated cost of repairing the line and refurbishing the coaches is over R100-million.

Winde said he would also discuss the future of Cape Town‘s port, which was a key element in the regional economy.

“I am of the opinion that we need to be included and consulted in its management and day-to-day running. The success or failure of the port and its related services affects business and tourism in our province, and my aim is to reduce those factors which are posing blockages to our economy,” Winde added.