Ngqura set to handle manganese

Ngqura will start handling manganese from 2019, according to Transnet Freight Rail CEO Siyabonga Gama. Speaking to Metro Minutes in Johannesburg after the presentation of Transnet’s Annual Results for 2013/14, Gama said that both the rail infrastructure and export terminal would be completed by 2019 at a total cost of R26 billion for both projects. That will also signal the closure of the manganese terminal in the Port Elizabeth harbour. The environmental impact assessment for the upgrading of the railway link between Hotazel in the Northern Cape and the port and Coega Industrial Development Zone is currently under way. Gama said work would begin with the upgrading of the sections of the line closest to the port. Speaking at the presentation, Transnet Port Terminals CEO Karl Socikwa said manganese was now being exported through East London in skiptainers originally manufactured to handle coal from Elitheni. New handling equipment procured by Transnet will increase the containerhandling capacity at Ngqura from the current 750 000 TEUs per annum to 1.5 million TEUs. Still outstanding are the building of a new administration building for Transnet National Ports Authority and a tug basin. Tenders have already been awarded for the first phase of the administration buildings with the tender for the building of the craft basin due to be issued shortly. INSERT & CAPTION Both the rail infrastructure and export terminal will be completed by 2019 at a total cost of R26 billion. – Siyabonga Gama