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Alongside the 5M2As came the 14CRB engines which had been displaced by diesels at
East London. These engines became part of the Cape fleet for many years working

goods trains all over the Western Cape. Of course, they also ran specials. Some were
kept in magnificent condition by their crews.

By 1984 the last of the Class 5M2As came off the assembly line at Union Carriage &
Wagon Co., Nigel, Transvaal. In the meantime the Class 19C and 24 Class steam

engines began to be regular runners on the suburban goods trains until the demise of
steam and the closure of Paarden Eiland steam depot in 1982. From 1982 diesels

became entrenched in all goods work. (Fig. 2.50).

Conclusion

Our line to Simon’s Town, despite the ravages of urban spread through the years, still

remains one of South Africa’s unique lines scenically, and on 2 December 1990 a

commemorative run was held to celebrate its centenary. Simon’s Town station itself
remains the most historically intact station of all on the suburban line. (Fig. 2.51).

Where else do trains face heavy seas and run across beaches as they do here? Through

the years the railway and trains have coped with spectacular spring tides, south-easters,
wash-aways, flooding and, of course, the eternal problem of sea sand. All of these

certainly provide excitement for the enthusiast. (Fig. 2. 52).

In 1990 the colour scheme or livery changed with the introduction of METRO. Then, in

2003 the latest electric multiple units, classified 10M3, began entering service on the
Simon’s Town line. However, as always, despite these innovations, the familiar scenery

and many of the same buildings were still there in the background. (Fig. 2.53).