Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) is repositioning the ports of Cape Town, Mossel Bay and Saldanha Bay to improve infrastructure supporting the region’s booming shipping demand.
TNPA highlighted several projects across the three ports in a statement on Monday, saying it is currently finalising a detailed design of the rail infrastructure upgrade at the Port of Cape Town.
This key deliverable will enable the construction phase of the development of Phase2B of the Cape Town Container Terminal expansion.
The design work will be completed by December 2024.
The project scope also includes a container stack upgrade as well as a truck staging area and automation.
“The expansion will see a capacity increase from one million TEU to 1.4 million TEU, with an investment value of approximately R1.775 billion,” TNPA said.
“Project commencement is planned for September 2025.”
The ports authority is also reviewing and finalising precinct plans for the Culemborg Intermodal Logistics Precinct Development in the port, followed by a request for proposals during the 2024/25 financial year.
The project includes the development of land parcels near the port to create additional back-of-port capacity.
At the Port of Saldanha, projects include the extension of the multi-purpose terminal and developing the new berth 205, which will cater for rig repairs.
It will also provide additional capacity for breakbulk operations.
Strategic initiatives in the Port of Mossel Bay include constructing the cruise reception facility to enable international cruise vessels to call at the port.
The slipway rehabilitation project planned for 2024/25 financial year will increase the port’s slipway and cradle capacity from 200 to 500 tons.
Acting TNPA managing executive for the Western Region ports, Captain Vernal Jones, said the projects were critical to improving port efficiency.
“The execution of these projects is not only a demonstration of our commitment to investing in the creation of additional port capacity but isalso critical for the ports authority to respond to the need to improve the operational performance of the South African ports,” Jones said.
