Pier 1 has been creating havoc within the logistics chain, according to Gert Viviers, Durban manager for Roadwing and vice-chairman of the Harbour Carrier division of the SA Association of Freight Forwarders (Saaff) of KZN. But Pier 1 management have been receptive to comments from the private sector, and a collaborative relationship has been established between Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) and the carriers. This has seen Viviers leading a task force which identifies problem areas on both sides, and looks for joint solutions. “Many factors have to be taken into account on any project, as they see where they can obviate some of the challenges they are faced with,” he said. “Then the team can start working on solutions together with Pier 1 management.” So far, three major problem areas have come under the scrutiny of the Saaff-KZN team. The widening of Bayhead Road was one. A project that went off without any major disruptions and was a success, said Viviers. Then there was what was titled the “Gas Leak Project”. This was emitted at one of the tenant’s premises in the Luther Complex and often caused stoppages within the port. “This is still under observation,” Viviers said, “and is being successfully monitored.” Last year, the Pier 1 wind stoppage and truck delay project was instituted. It was found that stoppages were inevitable because of the wind gust sensitivity of the rubbertyred gantry cranes (RTGs), and the electronic automatic cut-off system attached to the cranes. But the truck delays remained on the table, and answers are currently being found in the likes of directional siting of container stacks. “Even on the worst of bad days, we want to get our trucks through the terminal in four hours,” Viviers said. “These are just some of the ongoing issues that our Saaff- KZN members have set as a target to fight, as they directly affect our country’s economy.”
