Dry dock facility proves its mettle

EL port development plan focuses on cranes and rail LEONARD NEILL HAVING RECENTLY played host to two shipping ‘casualties’, the Port of East London has demonstrated its versatility, says acting port manager Willem Roux. “In both instances it brought out the qualities of efficiency for which we have earned international recognition and respect,” says Roux. Vessel number one is still a firm fixture at the harbour entrance. The container carrier Agulhas ran aground there two months ago and presented a tough task for those wanting to remove the cargo. A total of 500 containers and other bulk material have since been offloaded and transhipped to other destinations without loss. But the proudest feature for East London’s workforce was the removal of 750 tons of bunker fuel oil without a drop being spilt. Environmental authorities nationwide have offered their praise, says Roux. Vessel number two provided a different challenge. It was a Royal Naval frigate damaged on the high seas that required urgent attention. East London’s dry dock was available and in rapid time the vessel was restored to full working order. It sailed from the harbour with the Union Jack flying high on its main mast, and earning the skipper’s praise for a speedy and highly efficient job The dry dock has developed into what Roux describes as ‘a really star performer’, a term that could also describe the car terminal. But grain movements through the country’s largest elevator, and imports of timber and cement in vast quantities from the Far East also keep the port active. With its eye on future growth, East London is focused on sea and overland challenges. Container cranes remain an important requirement while rail services to the industrial hinterland are also a priority. “It’s all part of a major development plan,” says Roux. “A comprehensive document has been drawn up and is currently with Transnet. The powers at headquarters have set aside vast sums of money to meet the requirements of all the country’s ports and we, of course, have to wait our turn in the queue. “The port authorities have enjoyed the support of the provincial government. The politicians regard the harbour’s needs as an integral part of its Provincial Growth and Development Plan (PGDP). At the same time the Border-Kei Chamber of Business, the Buffalo City Municipality and the ELIDZ have also thrown their weight behind our expansion plans. “When it all comes together, East London will be in a positive position to play its role as one of the country’s major harbours.”