Transnet has commissioned a study to find an answer to the Cape’s biggest challenge – wind. But in the meantime, the saga of the cranes at the Cape Town Container Terminal continues with no single longterm solution any nearer to being delivered. With the debate ongoing regarding what suits the terminal best – rubber tyre gantries (RTGs) or straddle carriers – Transnet has invested heavily in RTGs at the terminal. A total of 28 are currently in operation, and while all straddle carriers were removed from the terminal, after much pressure from industry nine were re-introduced last year. “A decision was taken by the group to operate the port with RTGs,” explained Brenda Magqwaka, CTCT manager. “When all is equal these cranes operate exceptionally well, allowing for far denser stacking and fast operations. The wind has however been a problem and the cranes have not worked as well as was hoped for.” Industry has questioned Transnet’s decision repeatedly saying the straddle carriers remain a far better option in a wind environment as they continue to operate in winds over 100km per hour while the RTGs cease operations at around 85km per hour. With a port plagued by wind such as Cape Town, industry has maintained Transnet’s decision to opt for RTGs did not make sense. Proposals to introduce a 50% RTG and 50% straddle carrier system have been turned down by Transnet based on the large investment made in the RTGs. While the organisation did finally bow to pressure and re-introduce straddle carriers, no more are expected to be added to operations. “A study has been commissioned to determine what is the best option for Cape Town,” said Mgqwaka, who has been in the firing line of many frustrated port users. “And despite the call for straddle carriers we are being told by these experts that this is not the best option for a wind terminal such as Cape Town.” Various wind strategies have been adopted at the port including a drop and go system which sees the straddle carriers continue to operate in heavy winds. “We are looking at finding a long-term solution that will address the issue,” Magqwaka told FTW. “Looking at some of the findings of the study so far there are various options including a semi-automated port operation, but that would require further investment.” INSERT & CAPTION Proposals to introduce a 50% RTG and 50% straddle carrier system have been turned down by Transnet based on the large investment made in the RTGs. – Brenda Magqwaka
