Transnet remains tight-lipped over Saldanha equipment woes

RAY SMUTS
A VEIL of silence surrounded Saldanha’s broken-down iron ore loader this week as parastatal Transnet remained tight-lipped on the matter, declining any comment whatsoever. Transnet communications executive, John Dludlu, told FTW there was nothing further to add to the first – and last – statement issued toward the end of last month. He would not be drawn on the reason for the breakdown of what is a fairly new piece of equipment (about two years old). Dludlu said an investigation was still under way so it was difficult to determine when further news would become available. “We will issue a statement once we know more.” Asked why NPA and Sapo personnel at Saldanha had been prohibited from talking to the media over the issue, he said Transnet policy dictated that there was only one official spokesman, namely himself. It just so happens the port’s second loader was undergoing maintenance when the first broke down, thereby bringing all loading to a complete stop. Kumba Resources, Saldanha’s major iron ore exporter, exported 11.2 million tons during the first six months of this financial year. Working on the assumption that both loaders will still be inoperative come the end of this week, it will indicate that more than one million tons of ore await loading. Kumba said the breakdown would delay its short-term export schedule but that trains from Sishen mine to Saldanha remained fully operational and that the port’s ore stockpile would allow for continued feed.