PE, Ngqura set new container records

Transnet Port Terminals is finding ways of maintaining productivity during Port Elizabeth’s windy season – and is setting records in the process. According to Siya Mhlaluka, terminal executive manager: Eastern Cape region, the Ngqura container terminal hit a record of 42.7 gross-crane moves per hour (GCH), while Port Elizabeth hit 35 GCH – both earlier in November. Ngqura averaged 29.3 GCH during October, up from 27 in September, and 28 in October. Port Elizabeth improved productivity from 25 GCH in August to 27.6 GCH in September, and 29 GCH in October. “Given that the ‘accepted’ world-class standard is in the range of 26 to 30 GCH, Ngqura and Port Elizabeth have demonstrated that we are up there with the world’s best,” says Mhlaluka. Mhlaluka says the increase in productivity is due to a combination of improvement in the planning of yard and waterside activities as well as “engagement with key stakeholders including employees, clients and stevedoring companies to ensure alignment in planning”. Weather-related delays have decreased “due to smarter planning on how to deal with weather-related challenges”.