Patience please as CT rolls out new berthing system

Berthing delays have come under the spotlight at the Port of Cape Town with Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) calling on industry to be patient as a new system is rolled out. With industry complaints rife about berthing delays and the need to improve tug and pilot response times, TNPA officials have told the Port Liaison Forum, an initiative of the Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry, that a new slot system has been implemented in an attempt to streamline berthing operations and ensure fewer delays. Port authorities say while the system is still in its infancy – having been implemented just two months ago – they are already seeing positive results. “With a new harbour master at the helm and with a new berthing system in place we are asking industry to be patient,” said a spokesman for TNPA. “It is all fairly new to the port and we do need to give it time to determine if it is improving the situation or not. At this stage we are getting very positive feedback from the shipping lines and the process is being monitored closely.” While many port users believe that tug services in particular should be outsourced to the private sector, TNPA is confident they will be able to make a difference with the system. It is designed to create a balance when it comes to the berthing of vessels, taking the priority of these vessels into consideration while also improving communication with stakeholders. “We are starting to see some changes and we can see how the operation is being smoothed out. We believe that delays will decrease in the long run.” CAPTION New slot system implemented to streamline berthing operations.