Stalemate between yachties and Port Authority
The Port Authority says it has engaged with the boat residents but was unhappy with the feedback
AFTER more than a month without electricity, the yachties living on board their vessels at the Small Craft Harbour are no more enlightened about the situation and claim Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) is yet to engage with them directly.
‘We are mostly elderly people living on our boats and without electricity, especially during the winter months, we are battling with everything, from not being able to keep food in the fridge, to cooking and keeping warm,’ said one affected resident who asked to remain anonymous.
‘Furthermore, if our boats take on water we are unable to activate our bilge pumps.
‘It is the responsibility of the Harbour Master to ensure all vessels within the port limits comply with safety regulations,’ said Port of Richards Bay Harbour Master, Captain Sabelo Mdlalose.
‘One of the port’s major challenges is compliance with safety regulations, particularly pertaining to motor yachts.’
Mdlalose said that in November a formal letter was distributed to all vessels currently moored at the Small Craft Harbour, requesting them to ensure they comply with safety regulations at all times.
‘The vessels concerned have become unseaworthy, thereby posing a risk not only to the port environment, but to the people living aboard these vessels,’ said Mdlalose.
The residents dispute having received the letter.
‘We are trying our best to meet the regulations and I must stress that none of us want to sink our boats as we live on them,’ said the resident.
‘Abandoned vessels are another question and could be considered unsafe in my opinion,’ he continued.
He said they are confined to moorings and are not operating, and they appreciate TNPA’s concern and are doing their best to conform.
While the residents state TNPA has failed to engage with them, Mdlalose said the vessels’ residents were engaged with, but the feedback given by the owners and the people living on these craft was unacceptable as they do not have proper plans in place to ensure seaworthiness of their vessels is reinstated’.
According to the residents, they would welcome a meeting with TNPA and the situation need not have deteriorated to this level had they been able to enjoy open discussions with the port authority.
Mdlalose made no mention of why electricity to the vessels was cut or when it would be restored.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp – 072 069 4169
Instagram – zululand_observer
