Freight Databank provides first ever access to key transport info

LAST WEEK saw the launch of a new initiative designed to guide government’s transport sector policy and applications for the country. Unveiled by Transport Minister Jeff Radebe the National Freight Databank will act as a consolidated information resource on freight logistics data in South Africa. “This tool will be a comprehensive platform for us to engage in constructive analysis and data interpretation to allow us to make informed decisions for the sector,” Radebe told guests at the NFD launch in Pretoria. “This databank should be used as an integrated tool which will enable regional integration by determining peak traffic times to alleviate congestion, particularly at border posts.” Described as “an unparalleled milestone” in the department’s plans for building capacity for freight logistics, DoT director general Mpumi Mpofu said that strong and healthy freight data would be essential to the effective functioning of the economy. There is currently no legislation in place compelling disclosure of origin and destination information on road freight in South Africa. A road freight traffic study was piloted in KZN in 2002, and then rolled out through the other provinces, with only the Eastern Cape awaiting completion. The data was combined with industry information on cargo moved on the main corridors. Rail, port, air cargo and pipeline information was sourced from the various parastatals. The result is a collection of freight data from the various modes and linked to a GIS network. The publicly accessible information will assist government on policy formation and infrastructure investment plans, and will be used to identify bottlenecks to enhance operational efficiency. Corridor mapping, modelling and forecasting are key applications for the project, with successful utilisation of data driving initiatives such as the Durban and Gauteng freight strategies. The Harrismith Logistics Hub project is also supported by information already collected and available in the databank. “This data will help us build a strong case for modal optimisation and also reduce duplication in freight transport infrastructure expenditure,” Mpofu added.