Maydon Wharf refurbishment ‘critical’

The refurbishment programme
at the Port of Durban’s
Maydon Wharf cannot come soon
enough as the industry voices
serious concerns over the state of
the quay.
According to Dave Watts,
maritime director for the South
African Association of Freight
Forwarders, it should have
happened a long time ago.
“We have left it to the last
minute and from what we
understand it is essential that it is
rehabilitated as it poses a very real
safety threat,” he said.
Watts said while the massive
refurbishment programme at the
port was disruptive at times for
business operations, a pragmatic
approach was needed.
He said it was generally
accepted that the upgrades would
ensure a more efficient port that
would benefit all.
“While there are still challenges
that have to be overcome and
questions raised over some of the
decisions being taken by Transnet
at the port, there are also some
exciting developments such as
those planned for Salisbury Island
– even though the go-ahead is yet
to be given.”
Watts said it was encouraging to
hear debates like the one between
the Durban City Council and port
authorities around the challenges
and solutions for Bayhead Road.