Shutdown poses a risk for coal terminal

EFF National shutdown planned

SOUTH AFRICA: The Richards Bay Coal Terminal has been identified as a high risk area ahead of Monday’s planned national shutdown and protest action initiated by the Economic Freedom Front (EFF).

Head of EFF, Julius Malema, has called on demonstrations at the terminal to protest the export of coal in the face of Eskom shortages that continue to hamper consistent electricity generation.

An initial statement issued by Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) that operations would be suspended in the Port of Richards Bay from Sunday until Tuesday was later withdrawn.

The impact of the Durban riots remains fresh in the minds of the port communities and it is understood from some sources that they will remain on high alert. The previous unrest has, however, ensured that many companies have instituted well-developed business continuity plans to combat such events.

Speaking on a news bulletin last week, Prasheen Maharaj, President of the Durban Chamber of Commerce as well as the head of Sandock Austral Shipyards agreed that next week’s threats to business were being taken more seriously by the relevant security structures than those in 2021.

“We have learned our lesson,” he admitted while nevertheless noting that there was not a planned mass closure of businesses in the province.

Various security groups have issued warnings and guidelines for companies to protect their assets and premises. One of the biggest threats, however, to many businesses on Monday is the disruption to public transport which may prevent staff from reaching their work premises.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has labelled the shutdown as a “reckless” action that will destabilise South Africa, noting that small businesses suffered a loss of R70 billion during the 2021 riots. The EFF, however, has continue to promise peaceful protest action without violence with Malema stating that they will not be responsible for any rioting should it occur.