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Steam locos in storage at De Aar

South Africa - 1984

Steam was disappearing rapidly with withdrawn locos being sent to a number of storage points at loco sheds throughout South Africa. This was a sight typical of the declining days of steam locos throughout the world. The temporary sidings laid close to the active depot at De Aar soon filled with withdrawn locos destined for scrap. The dry desert air helped reduce further deterioration. Luckily some did survive as they were purchased by private railways for future use.

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