Transnet opens new port rules for discussion

A SERIES of roadshows around the country’s ports is being used by Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) to introduce proposed new regulations and guidelines of the National Ports Act. The Draft Port Rules and Harbour Masters’ Written Instructions are intended to update an outdated 1982 document with one of the essential purposes being, according to Transnet, to ensure that South Africa’s ports are run efficiently and are supportive of economic growth. According to Sue Lund, Transnet general manager for policy and research, this requires master planning and long-term vision to meet the demands of the economy in terms of port facilities. “We have to forecast what the volumes will be, where the demand for import and export cargo is coming from, and to provide infrastructure ahead of the demand curve.We know we have some catchup to do on that,” Lund said. The purpose of new port rules is to protect the environment, safety and security within the port environs, she added. The function of providing safe navigation made the role of harbourmasters an extremely important one and there was also a need to control port services and facilities and to ensure that these met the needs of port users through licences, permits and agreements. The current regulations and port rules dating back to 1982 needed to be brought in line with international safety and security standards. The new rules and harbour instructions are a cause for some concern among recreational users within the ports, particularly in Durban where there is a long tradition of access to Durban Bay. The city is currently negotiating with Transnet about a planned waterfront development along the embankment and earlier this year called for proposals from developers. City manager Mike Sutcliffe said it was too early to work through the implications of the new rules and would discuss these with Transnet.