New STS cranes set to boost CT productivity

Import volumes at the Port of Cape Town have remained subdued – with exports performing somewhat better. “Although volumes are down, that is not out of line with the world economy and what we are seeing at other ports in the world,” said a Transnet National Ports Authority representative. “Breakbulk volumes are doing relatively well although liquid bulk volumes are slightly down. At the same time we have seen a drop in the number of container vessels calling at the port, but that is due to lines consolidating.” According to Transnet Port Terminals (TPT), the port is very fluid at present with the container terminal handling the highest number of TEUs in the past month compared to the past few years. “We are also in the process of completing the erection of the two new ship-to-shore cranes that are planned to be operational from the first week in October,” said the spokesman. “The bad weather is however hampering the process because while we can continue to work in the rain, the heavy winds do pose a problem.” The TPT spokesman said plans were in place to fit the booms on the two new cranes within the next few days should the weather hold. “We are on schedule at this stage to slip them onto the quay wall in the last week of September and to be up and running in the first week of October.” The addition of two ship-to-shore cranes at the port is expected to have a significant impact on productivity, improving its operational efficiency.