Transnet declares 95% of Durban Port safe

Friday, October 13, 2017

At least 95% of the Durban Port area has now been declared safe for the navigation of vessels.

On Tuesday, severe weather conditions left Durban flooded which resulted in the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) declaring the port unsafe.

According to TNPA, progress has been made in clearing obstruction and debris on the seabed allowing for navigation along the Durban Container Terminal: Pier 1.

“Sounding surveys are still in progress along the C-Shed area and in the interest of ensuring safe navigation of vessels, vessel movement is still suspended in this area,” the TNPA said.

The three vessels that were grounded after its anchors broke have since been released. The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) provided technical support during the multi vessel emergency operation.

“We are increasingly getting confronted with deteriorating weather patterns and can expect similar incidents in the future given the effects of climate change. It was a saving grace that all this took place within the harbour where all resources are concentrated. It could have been worse if it was over a large open sea area,” said SAMSA Chief Operating Officer Sobantu Tilayi.

The ports provide crucial maritime services include clearing the harbour, aid navigation, ship repairs and marine operations.

Transnet National Ports Authority’s focus still remains on continuing with the implementation of the recovery operations and supporting terminal operators to restore normality. 

Transnet National Ports Authority

The TNPA is one of five operating divisions of Transnet SOC Ltd. The National Ports Authority is responsible for the safe, effective and efficient economic functioning of the national port system, which it manages in a landlord capacity. It provides port infrastructure and marine services at the eight commercial seaports in South Africa – Richards Bay, Durban, Saldanha, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, East London, Mossel Bay and Ngqura. – SAnews.gov.za