A shortage of tugs is unlikely to cause delays at the Port of Cape Town, a spokesman for Transnet National Ports Authority has assured its customers. Only three tugs are currently operational at the port with the fourth currently undergoing routine maintenance. Port authorities do not foresee any major problems as volumes have dropped in recent months. “The tug is undergoing a major engine overhaul as part of routine maintenance and will be out of commission for at least three weeks,” said a TNPA spokesman. “At present we have three tugs operational and fully staffed during the day shift, but are operating with only two tugs at night. The third can however be brought into operation on request on the night shift.” Having faced staff shortages to man all four tugs over two shifts, TNPA is presently recruiting staff to ensure that all four tugs will be operational by the end of July at the latest.
