By Lehhlohonolo Lehana.
Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has increased the number of tugs available at the Port of Durban to an average of six.
The increased tug availability is set to complement the recently announced 24-hour helicopter service, ensuring a quicker turnaround of vessels at the port and allowing terminal operators to implement the container recovery plan at the port with agility, the entity avers.
This milestone comes after the introduction of a TNPA-wide fleet renewal programme which seeks to ensure marine craft are maintained and serviced timeously to mitigate against breakdowns and provide a buffer should there be a need.
The six operational tugs – Umkhomazi, Mkhuze, Lotheni, Palmiet, Pholela and uMhlali – add to the required tug capacity and availability in the improvement of operational efficiencies in the port, TNPA said.
The provision of tugs falls within the ambit of TNPA as stipulated in Section 11 (n) of the National Ports Act of 2005, which states that the authority should provide or arrange for tugs, pilot boats and other facilities and services for the navigation and berthing of vessels in the ports.”
The port has seen severe delays recently due to various factors, including adverse weather conditions and equipment availability and maintenance.
“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,” Transnet National Ports Authority, Port Manager at the Port of Durban, Mpumi Dweba-Kwetana said on Friday.
TNPA also anticipates the delivery of three second-hand tugs to the Port of Durban in the first quarter of 2024.
TNPA 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.