After witnessing three groundings in the aftermath of a severe storm, marine operations have resumed at the Port of Durban. On Wednesday, the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) declared 80 per cent of the navigable area of the port safe for marine operations.
On October 11, Sea News reported about the fatal disaster which claimed at least a dozen lives and resources worth billions of dollars. Inhabitants of Durban are still recuperating from the wrath of the fierce storm which ravaged the port-city of South Africa exactly a week ago.
“We are extremely appreciative of the excellent collaboration between TNPA and various stakeholders who acted quickly and efficiently to partially restore normalcy at the port. Our immediate focus is to continue with the implementation of recovery operations,” TNPA Chief Executive Shulami Qalinge, said.
Collapsed buildings and walls, enormous sinkholes on roads, massive power outages, blocked storm-water drains and sewer lines, flooded buildings and households and a sea of mud and debris were left for authorities to confront in the aftermath of Tuesday’s monster storm.
TNPA said the results of the sounding surveys indicated that there was some obstruction on the seabed that could pose a risk to navigation.
“In the interest of ensuring safe navigation of vessels, operations have commenced in channels that are clear from obstruction. Port teams remain on scene,” TNPA said.
The Business Continuity Plan (BCP) will remain in place until TNPA has restored normality at the Port of Durban.
