Richards Bay Port geared for growth
Floating dry dock part of massive seven-year capex budget
THE Port of Richards Bay will enjoy a massive R4.4-billion capital investment budget over the next seven years.
Speaking to the Zululand Observer on Monday, TNPA Port Engineer Basil Ngcobo said: ‘At the moment we have enough capacity to handle demand but looking ahead, we need to maintain the right operational standards and efficiency.’
He revealed a number of exciting projects on the port’s expansion programme, which will be done in stages to enhance the port’s capabilities and services.
One is the long-awaited floating dry dock scheme, which has two envisaged facets.
The first is a floating ship repair facility capable of accommodating Capesize vessels – bulk carriers and tankers typically above 150 000 deadweight tonnage.
‘A feasibility study has already been done and will be starting with the detailed design,’ said Ngcobo.
‘TNPA will provide the infrastructure at a cost of around R1-billion, with the total project worth about R1.5-billion.
‘We are in the process of getting a private operator on board and we have an aggressive programme, looking to complete the project by 2019.’
The floating dry dock facility will be located at the Repair Quay, Small Craft Harbour and will require refurbishment of the existing quay and deepening of the berth to 18 metres.
‘At present there is no appetite for a graving dock (fully fledged dry dock), this is to be considered at a future date and is earmarked to be placed in the casuarinas area,’ said Ngcobo.
Photo: Tess Gower
Gas-to-power
While coal remains by far the greatest commodity shipped through the port, more emphasis is being placed on facilities for liquid bulk, which enjoys higher tariffs.
A new berth (207) will be dedicated to gas-to-power and bulk services will be provided for this berth.
Related to the above infrastructure and other South Dunes projects, a pre-feasibility study for bulk services infrastructure spine is ongoing.
Massive investment is being made in the acquisition of two new helicopters for the port’s marine pilot transfer service.
‘We will make a down payment of R60-million on the first new chopper (estimated cost of close to R200-million) and as soon as it arrives we will start the process to acquire the second one by 2023,’ said Ngcobo.
‘The helipad will also be upgraded so as to accommodate the second helicopter.’
A replacement tug and a new launch boat for berthing services are also on the cards.
Provision of water, sewer and stormwater services as well as provision of new roads, fences and electrical transformers are highlighted on the budget.
Massive plans were also presented for additional yard rail infrastructure linked to stockyards, new berths, conveyors and shiploaders.
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