Entry into the operations area of the port of Beira is being systematically tightened as the operator Cornelder implements measures to improve safety and security.
While the port passed a recent International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS) inspection by the United States Coastguard, the objective is to continue raising the bar for safety and security in the port, according to executive managing director Jan de Vries.
“We want to avoid problems by eliminating the need for people to go into the port.” The additional measures to be implemented include the construction of new facilities for staff and port operations at the terminal entrance. The need for truck drivers to leave the cab is being systematically reduced through the introduction of automated systems and there are plans for the containers to be offloaded or picked up from a cross-loading terminal outside the container yard.
This will speed up turnaround times for hauliers and improve safety as only trained and accredited Cornelder drivers will move the containers to and from the stacks. Measures are also being introduced to limit the use of private vehicles within the port precinct. A car park will be built on the perimeter for staff and visitors, who will be taken to the administration buildings by shuttles.
The operations offices will be moved outside of the restricted area in order to make it easier for port users to attend the daily meetings and to conduct business with the port. A warehouse used by customs to hold the auction of seized goods will be moved out of the terminal perimeter to provide easier access for all involved stakeholders such as buyers, customs and other entities.
Security inside the port is being improved by the addition of 120 more surveillance cameras and the building of a command centre for 24-hour monitoring.
We want to avoid problems by eliminating the need for people to go into the port. – Jan de Vries
