The Cape Town Container Terminal (CTCT) cleared most of its backlog, berthing vessels on arrival with only one vessel at anchor on Tuesday as the terminal takes measures to improve efficiencies during the deciduous fruit season.
CTCT said in a statement that it had managed to clear the backlog after increasing equipment availability to optimise operations and improve efficiencies. The terminal is currently operating with 20 rubber-tyred gantry cranes (RTG), six of which were recently fitted with new engines and three with generators.
“The availability of RTGs has increased from an average of 15 to 20.
“CTCT is currently completing maintenance repairs on two additional RTGs and has also acquired seven second-hand machines to be delivered in December 2023, which will bring the total number of RTG available to operations to 29,” a source at CTCT said.
“These RTGs are a stopgap while Transnet Port Terminals finalises the long-term partnership with original equipment manufacturers for all container and multipurpose terminals.
“The contracts are expected to be concluded by December and orders for new RTGs at the CTCT will be placed.”
On the landside, the terminal has increased the number of hauliers from 32 to 42, while ship-to-shore cranes average eight, with the ninth machine out for maintenance and repairs.
“The recruitment of additional engineering personnel and other critical skills remain a key priority in ensuring maximum reliability of equipment,” CTCT said.
The terminal will bring onboard the first group of diesel mechanics on Friday, December 1, while the first new team of millwrights will report for duty in January 2024.
TPT’s Western Cape managing executive, Andiswa Dlanga, said the port was committed to ensure a successful fruit export season.
“The deciduous fruit season, which runs from November to March, has a renowned reputation worldwide and contributes greatly to our economy, providing employment to many South Africans.
“We are committed to continue putting more initiatives and efforts in optimising our logistics for the success of the season,” Dlanga said.
“We apologise to our customers for the delays and thank them for their understanding.”
