Ports authority urge stakeholder co-operation
Port manager challenges hiccups in port operations
PHOTO: Mia Moorcroft
THE Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) cannot ensure operations efficiencies alone, but need the support and dedication of port users, stakeholders and customers to push business to full capacity.
There is a need to integrate marine, port terminals and road and rail services to ensure a seamless and efficient supply chain system.
This was the message from Port of Saldanha Bay TNPA Port Manager Willem le Roux, speaking at a TNPA business breakfast in Richards Bay on Wednesday.
‘We are entering a new era and it is important to make sure we do not embark on this journey on our own, but together with all involved parties.’
Starting with the first point of the logistics chain, Le Roux said anchorage time must be reduced and vessel planning improved.
‘No cargo or vessel owner can tolerate having its vessel wait for four days.
‘Facilities must be used to its optimal efficiency and capacity so that vessels can be berthed immediately on arrival.
‘And if there is an issue recognised beforehand, it should be communicated to vessels at sea to slow steam to the port and save fuel, allowing them to dock on arrival as the issue gets resolved.
‘Customers do not compare us to the worst, but the best ports in the world – they expect nothing less,’ said Le Roux.
Other hiccups causing decelerated movement of operations and logistics at the port was noted as ineffective throughput and slow turnaround times.
‘It is all about throughput and we need stakeholders, partners and customers to help maximise it,’ said Le Roux.
‘Turnarounds must be fast and trucks and trains should have services made readily available.’
