Security fence makes major impact on cargo safety

THE PORT of Maputo has committed to a massive marine safety campaign over the past year.
Two new tugs and a pilot boat have been purchased, crews have been re-trained, the harbour itself has had its main channel dredged to a depth of 9.4m and widened to 100m, allowing vessels to pass in mid-channel both day and night. The maximum draught at high tide is now 12.2m.
“One of the biggest undertakings has been the erection of the 6km electrified security fence,” says MPDC’s Dick Moore. “Before this was in operation, thieves walked through without any problem and pilfered terminals. We knew the place then as Ôpick and no pay.’ But all of that has now changed.”
The strengthening and upgrading of wharves, now in progress, will take a year to complete, he says, while work is proceeding on new terminals.
“We are well ahead with phase one of the ferrochrome terminal, which should be ready by early July. The second phase will start in about a year. Steel is presently being handled through the India shed while three new sheds, each 20000m2, are under construction and should be ready before the year’s end.”
New rail lines are being laid, while dockside cranes and other working equipment are being replaced. All told 46 of the older cranes have been scrapped along with old rails and rolling stock. A total of 25 000 tons of scrap has already been exported from the harbour to Far East dealers.