Pretoria - A pipeline is being constructed between Johannesburg and Durban to transport fuel inland and ensure security of supply.
The New Multi-Product Pipeline (NMPP) - the biggest in the world - will replace the existing and ageing Durban to Johannesburg Pipeline (DJP). It is set to be completed in 2011 and operational by December of the same year.
According to Transnet, the NMPP is the single biggest project in Transnet's R93.4 billion five-year capital investment portfolio. The pipeline, once fully operational, will reduce the number of tankers on the road by at least 60 percent - reduce road maintenance costs and congestion on the roads.
It is also the safest, most cost effective, efficient mode of moving petroleum products.
Transnet explained that in December 2007, the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) awarded Transnet the license to build the pipeline, including a 16 inch inland network and two terminals.
However, the company has requested an amendment to its construction license to allow timeline changes.
Transnet had set December 2012 as its earliest completion date while August 2013 was the late completion date for all construction activities. However, it has since changed the dates for the remaining activities, including accumulator tanks, to be completed and ready for operation by 31 December 2013.
The relocation of the construction of coastal terminals from the old Durban International Airport to Island View in the Port of Durban and some delays in obtaining required statutory approvals were cited as the main reason to schedule variations.
The move to Island View resulted in an 11km increase in the length of the pipeline affecting the hydraulics and requiring a change of design.
"Such revisions are common in projects of this complexity, uniqueness and size," explained Acting Group Chief Executive Chris Wells. "The NMPP, whose construction is about 33 percent complete, is the largest multi-product pipeline in the world and will have a lifespan of over 70 years," he added.
