TERRY HUTSON AGRIPORT, the bulk terminal operation on Durban’s Maydon Wharf, has been taken over by SA Port Operations and is in the process of being fully amalgamated into Sapo’s terminal systems, including having all personnel transferred onto the company payroll. Agriport has been the odd fish out among the sometimes muddied waters of Durban Bay, being a joint venture between Viamax, Transnet logistical supply subsidiary, and Sapo. But with indications that Viamax will become one of those companies that is hived off, it required a slick move from Transnet to keep its only bulk terminal in Durban from becoming privatised. Agriport was the port’s first grain elevator and when completed in 1924 was the country’s largest, with a capacity of 42 000 tons. That honour is now held by the East London elevator which was built in the 1960s. Agriport now shares the wharfside facility, including a modern concrete gallery and shiploaders, with the adjacent NTC Wood Chip plant.
