Transnet allocates R2bn to Durban and Cape Town

ALAN PEAT
AS PART of Transnet’s R37-billion, five-year infrastructure plan – approved by cabinet last year – the transport parastatal has announced a more-than R2-bn investment to improve capacity at the ports in Durban and Cape Town.
With Durban handling 64% of SA’s container trade, according to Transnet figures, R1.44-bn of the R2.07-bn allocated is to be spent on developing the additional container handling facility at the harbour’s Pier Number 1.
Some R600-million is also to be invested in upgrading the container terminal at the port of Cape Town, and R10-m has been allocated to further upgrade and increase the capacity of the reefer (refrigerated) container handling facility at the harbour.
The latter is an infrastructure designed to meet the growing demand for SA perishable exports (mainly fruit and vegetables).
There was no indication in the press release from Transnet as to when the upgrades would be completed.
But, said the parastatal’s CEO, Maria Ramos: “These projects (are) consistent with our strategic vision of reducing the cost of doing business in SA.”