Goods train derails, spills 80 000 tonnes maize

A goods train travelling from Harare to Shamva depot has derailed at Whitecliff in Glendale, spilling 80 000 tonnes of maize meant for drought relief in the process.

Those who witnessed the accident said the train was speeding.

At the time the ZBC News crew arrived at the scene of accident, no report had been made to the Zimbabwe Republic Police prompting fears of the security of the maize.

National Railways of Zimbabwe Spokesperson, Mr Phanuel Masikati confirmed the accident, adding that they are in the process of ascertaining the cause of the accident.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, Mrs Prisca Mupfumira has issued an ultimatum to the NRZ employees to immediately terminate their industrial action and go back to work.

The minister said the order is to be effected within 24 hours of issuance in line with the provisions of the Labour Act which gives her such a mandate.

Mr Masikati also confirmed that his company's employees received such an order and said management is also appealing to workers to go back to work.

The NRZ strike entered the second week on Tuesday after workers have gone for 15 months without pay.