Fleet focus for Durban port-turnaround plan

Six tugs servicing Port of Durban in plan to clear backlog

SOUTH AFRICA: With the expected delivery of three second-hand tugs in the first quarter of next year; a 24-hour helicopter service and a commitment to ensure the availability of six operational tugs in the Port of Durban, Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) is focussing on their fleet to ensure the successful implementation of the current container recovery plan that is in place across the country’s eight ports.

The marine craft status in the Port of Durban has been improved with the availability of an average of six tugs this month after TNPA introduced a fleet renewal programme that seeks to ensure that marine crafts are maintained and serviced periodically to mitigate against breakdowns and provide a buffer should there be a need.

Umkhomazi, Mkhuze, Lotheni, Palmiet, Pholela and uMhlali, are playing a vital role in adding the required tug capacity and availability in the improvement of operational efficiencies in the Port of Durban at this time.

“Having all six tugs operating is a big step in the right direction for the port and our investment in the marine fleet exhibits our commitment to continuous improvement and ensuring the port remains a gateway for trade. We are optimistic about the positive impact these tugs will have on the current container recovery plan and our general service offering to our customers,” said Mpumi Dweba-Kwetana, Port Manager at the Port of Durban.

Most of the repair and maintenance of the Port of Durban marine fleet has been carried out by TNPA’s internal heavy engineering workshop, Workshop 24, which is based in the Bayhead Precinct in the port.