Couple of points, a) the 150 m sequence of coal measures is...

Couple of points,
a) the 150 m sequence of coal measures is around 50% stone, mudstones, shales and sandstones. They are not seperate partings but cm thick bands interspersed with coal bands. hence this coalfield is not the easiest to produce a clean product.
B) the railline does connect to RBCT but requires 3 changes of motive power, DC electric, Diesel, and 25kv AC electrical. Hence the railage costs are not, as yet, comparable with the dedicated rail line from Witbank to RBCT.
c) there are some in RSA who would disagree with the statement of being politically stable, but thats another debate for another day.

Regards