The Western Cape government said on Monday it would do all it took to save the Outeniqua Choo-Choo in the Southern Cape.

Tourism MEC Alan Winde asked Transnet for permission to take over the railway line between George and Knysna.

This is part of the province’s plans to restore the Outeniqua Choo-Choo (steam train) operations in the region.

He said if Transnet agreed they would look for ways to use the Choo-Choo as a draw-card to attract tourists to the province.

The train stopped operating between Knysna and George after massive damage to the bridges and railway line four years ago.

Winde said steam trains were crucial for tourism.

“We want to interact with Transnet on this issue because we are convinced that the Outeniqua Choo-Choo is a tourism icon that needs to be saved.”