The R2-billion dredger fleet renewal programme by Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) took a step nearer completion when the new 750-cubic-metre, grab hopper dredger (GHD), the Italeni, sailed into the Port of Durban on her maiden voyage earlier this month. She is the second of three new dredgers to arrive in Durban, in all representing the largest single capital purchase by TNPA, said CE Tau Morwe. According to Morwe, with the new fleet, Dredging Services will have capacity ahead of demand. This will provide spare dredging capacity for neighbouring ports, and added income for the TNPA. The customs clearance of the Italeni dredger – she is, after all, a self-powered, f loating import product – was awarded to and successfully completed by Ziegler SA. CAPTION Part of a R2 billion dredger fleet renewal programme, TNPA’s new grab hopper dredger, Italeni, sailing into the Port of Durban on her maiden voyage this month.
