Transnet strike leads to improved communication

There has historically been a serious lack of communication between the Transnet port and rail authorities and the bulk of port users, according to Gerald Naidu, sales executive at SA Inland Logistics (Sail). “But, with this latest strike disaster, communication has improved,” he told FTW. At the same time, the strike also highlighted the collective problem of delays at the port. “This time it was very apparent that there is a ripple effect right along the supply chain – hitting shippers/importers, forwarders, transporters and the cargo buyer,” Naidu added. And Transnet finally got the message, arranging a meeting with Sail to hear its complaints. “It was a positive meeting,” said Naidu, “where they informed us of their challenges, and we, in turn, put our cards on the table. “We made it clear to them that they should engage all parties in the industry – and not only the shipping lines whom they have always treated as though they were the only customers at the port. But the lines actually only control a minimal portion of the movement of full container traffic in and out of the port.” Sail also made the point that the two sides can work jointly to alleviate the challenges currently encountered. “Transnet was open to the suggestions we made,” Naidu added, “and we will be discussing this with our clients, and working with the port.” He also suggested that, where individual voices are not being heard on issues affecting all port users, a combined, single voice might be loud enough to gain attention. “We should have a committee representing all the different industry bodies to put the point of view to Transnet,” he said. “We have to get together at each port to make our voices heard.”