Ports also want cargo to switch to rail

Transnet Port Terminals is as committed to seeing cargo move from road to rail in the coming years as its freight rail counterpart. “For too long we have worked in silos and therefore missed major opportunities,” said Nosipho Damasane of Transnet Port Terminals at the October Transport Forum. “Transnet needs to operate in an integrated manner throughout the logistics corridors, providing a common transformation and long-term planning backbone for all involved.” This way growth opportunities can be maximised and synergy created across the organisation. “There is too much cargo on the road. Some cargo also is just not suited for road and should be on rail. This transformation is a major challenge to us, but government is committed to moving cargo off road and Transnet is set to invest billions into the rail infrastructure and rolling stock over the next few years. “The ports are part of an integrated supply chain forming part of the rail corridor strategy. All our new and expansion projects are taking this integrated approach into consideration. Road is no longer an option.”