The imminent announcement of an infrastructure manager (IM) to oversee the implementation of the National Rail Policy is an important step in the revitalisation of South Africa’s freight rail future, but unless this IM is independent and impartial, rail reform is “doomed”, warns industry body the African Rail Industry Association (ARIA). ARIA CEO Mesela Kope-Nhlapo warns that if it is Transnet Freight Rail’s (TFR’s) intention to create an IM position as a part of TFR by October this year, it is against the spirit and intent of the National Rail Policy.