TransNamib was approached for comment on reports that bags of cement damaged in the accident would be bulldozed into the ground rather than removed from the site.

Concerned citizens pointed out the environmental impact of such a move and the contamination that may result.

Kanyemba said, however, that the cement that had spilled from torn bags would be "cleaned up" and not bulldozed into the ground.

She added that a truck was on its way from Windhoek to the accident site to pick up the undamaged bags.

She could not say what percentage of the cargo had been salvaged, as the clean-up operation was continuing.

She confirmed that four of the derailed wagons were carrying 880 bags of cement each.

Another two wagons contained gas cylinders.

She also confirmed that TransNamib would reimburse the clients for goods not delivered.

Local News Headlines Of The Last 48 Hours

•  High Court upholds labour-hire ban
•  Oshakati nervously eyes the sky
•  Shamil Dirk's graft case postponed again
•  ACC nabs Otavi Village Council CEO
•  Justice driver accused of looting
•  Job equity has improved
•  Ombudsman complains about Justice Ministry
•  New plan for Cuvelai Basin
•  APP postpones congress
•  Zim to ignore tribunal ruling
•  Immigration locks up SA journalist
•  Youth gets four years for rape
•  Swapo closes ranks
•  Hishongwa hits out at 'newcomers'
•  Doctors to court over dispensing rights
•  Project money missing
•  N$20 000 fine for computer corruption
•  Police kill suspect after 'struggle'
•  Union wants NHE bosses' heads
•  2008 a year of political violence: DTA
•  Gender violence takes centre stage
•  Employers of disabled people awarded
•  Closure of copper mines adds gloom to Nam mining outlook
•  78 Zim farmers win land case
•  Floodgates open over Windhoek
•  Everyone except Swapo to blame for the violence, claims President