The Port of Cape Town is rising, thanks to improved management, cooperation, and ongoing upgrades. Prioritising equipment availability and streamlining processes have been key factors in boosting operational efficiency, while much has been done to strengthen staff capacity to improve productivity.Industry bodies across the Cape have applauded these efforts, acknowledging that while there's still a long road ahead, steps are being taken in the right direction.Terry Gale, chairman of Exporters Western Cape, said ongoing improvement, particularly in the port's productivity, was paying off. "The Port of Cape Town often has to deal with the challenge of the weather, and equipment has led to its fair share of issues. The big concern for a while now from industry, however, has been around productivity, and we are seeing major improvements in this regard."He said the acquisition of seven pre-used rubber-tyred gantry cranes, while only four are currently in commission, has improved vessels' operational performance and turnaround t i me. " We consistently see efforts being made to address the challenges at the port. It now consistently has 24 gantry cranes operating, with three more expected to be commissioned. Ideally, as an industry, we would like to see the port operate 30 of these cranes, but we have already come a long way from last year when the container terminal was operating with only 20."Gale said the introduction of three hydraulic tension mooring units had also addressed some of the weather challenges that often plagued the port. "These units are expected to make a major difference come winter when the port usually has challenges with ranging."One area of concern revolved around the truck booking system, which continued to experience teething problems. However, industry stakeholders remain optimistic about resolving these issues."We have had a better fruit season this year, and we are optimistic that the ongoing improvements and efforts being made in Cape Town will benefit the province’s economy positively," said Gale.This was reiterated by the South African fruit industry body Hortgro, which reported that the new management and ongoing improvements at the port had made a difference and things were heading in the right direction.The organisation said ongoing investment in equipment at the port needed to continue to ensure that the port's older f leet was replaced with newer machines to reduce breakdowns."The winds of change are blowing in the right direction. The Western Cape region has massive potential, and the port is integral to us turning opportunities into reality," said Gale.
