Transnet declares 95 per cent of Durban Port safe
"We are increasingly getting confronted with deteriorating weather patterns and can expect similar incidents in the future given the effects of climate change," says SAMSA.
AT least 95 per cent of the Durban Port area has now been declared safe for the navigation of vessels. On Tuesday, severe weather conditions left Durban flooded which resulted in the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) declaring the port unsafe.
According to TNPA, progress has been made in clearing obstruction and debris on the seabed allowing for navigation along the Durban Container Terminal: Pier 1.
“Sounding surveys are still in progress along the C-Shed area and in the interest of ensuring safe navigation of vessels, vessel movement is still suspended in this area,” the TNPA said.
Read also: Durban storm death toll moves to 11, may rise
The three vessels that were grounded after its anchors broke have since been released. The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) provided technical support during the multi vessel emergency operation.
“We are increasingly getting confronted with deteriorating weather patterns and can expect similar incidents in the future given the effects of climate change. It was a saving grace that all this took place within the harbour where all resources are concentrated. It could have been worse if it was over a large open sea area,” said SAMSA Chief Operating Officer Sobantu Tilayi.
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