Ngqura keeps setting new benchmarks

Efficiencies continue to improve through the port of Ngqura, with Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) setting a new standard for container handling volumes during the month of August. “The higher transhipment volumes are a result of the transhipment hub strategy, which is driven, supported and sustained by our key stakeholders and customers,” says TPT Eastern Cape general manager Siya Mhlaluka. Nearly half of the container traffic handled by Ngqura in August was for transhipment. During the month, the terminal handled 63 857 TEUs, of which 18 725 was imports, 16 444 exports and 28 688 transhipment cargo destined for other regional ports. This was the highest volume handled in one month through the Ngqura Container terminal, following another record in June 2012 where the terminal handled 47 614 TEUs. During August 2012 shifts working at the terminal consistently achieved 29 moves per Gross Crane Hour (GCH). The growth has been spurred by an increase in market demand and the reefer cargo season. The terminal handled 45 488 TEUs in August last year, which reflects an improvement in volumes of 28.8%. Overall year-on-year volumes to the month of August have risen nearly 20%, from 408 314 to 507 283 TEUs. Mhlaluka said this was an exceptional achievement in the face of seasonal weather challenges experienced during August. These include wind and surges in the harbour. “The GCH record performance has been made possible by teamwork and improvements in vessel and yard planning. These volumes also have significant economic benefit because faster and more efficient container handling has ripple effects for the rest of the supply chain.” Setting records is proving to be a boost for the terminal team. “Our morale has been boosted by this outstanding record,” said ship-toshore operator, Caroline Ndevulana. She added there was good cooperation from the various internal departments, such as the planning teams, who were willing to implement operational changes, and the stevedores, who worked to minimise delays to vessels. CAPTION Siya Mhlaluka … ‘transhipment hub strategy paying off.’