Terminal operators of last resort to be appointed
TNPA issues tender for panel of port operators
SOUTH AFRICA: Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) is planning to appoint a panel of terminal operators that will be able to step in as an option of last resort to bridge operational gaps at the end of terminal operating contracts that have not been re-awarded.
The port authority issued a tender calling for port terminal operators to apply to join a panel of approved service providers that will be called on at short notice to provide interim terminal operations until the appointment a terminal operator through Section 56 is completed.
The panel will be established to service all eight port terminals in Durban, Cape Town, Richards Bay, Ngqura, Saldanha Bay, Port Elizabeth, East London and Mossel Bay.
As the “Operator of Last Resort," the service provider is required to enable continuation of operations in the terminal to mitigate the disruption of vessel servicing. The panel will be appointed for a three-year period to ensure that shipping lines can benefit from a continuity of efficient operations.
Operators on the panel will be invited to prepare revised bids for particular terminals as the need arises and should be able to provide cargo handling services for containers, liquid bulk, dry bulk and multi-purpose cargo.
This will include the import/export, transit storage, handling, and distribution of cargo on to and off the vessel with appropriate terminal equipment; organisation of traffic flow as well as distribution of cargo to inland customers through rail or road.
It will also include the maintenance of terminal infrastructure and equipment.
933