THE Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) recently signed a Terminal Operator Agreement (TOA) with Mnambithi Terminals for the development of a liquid bulk facility at the Durban Port’s Maydon Wharf precinct.
According to TPNA, the project will result in improved operational efficiencies at the Maydon Precinct as Transnet pursues a number of tactical initiatives to drive volume recovery and improve efficiencies across its divisions through the business-wide Recovery Plan.
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TPNA says the signing ceremony marks a significant milestone in the history of the Port of Durban. It also follows the successful conclusion of a Section 79 directive issued by the Minister of Transport for TNPA to grant Mnambithi Terminals a terminal operator agreement for the handling of liquid bulk, at Maydon Wharf 6, for a period of 20 years.
The new terminal will feature direct rail and road loading and an on-site truck-staging area with automated loading systems to ensure maximum operational efficiencies while alleviating road congestion in the Maydon Wharf precinct.
With an investment value of R1.3 billion, TNPA says the liquid bulk facility is also set to create over 50 to 100 direct – and just over 400 indirect – job opportunities for communities surrounding the Port of Durban from the project’s inception phase.
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“The TNPA is deliberate about enabling transformation in the industry and breaking barriers of entry by ensuring inclusion and access for all. We are, therefore, delighted to welcome Mnambithi Terminals and hope that this strategic relationship will promote the national, strategic and economic interests of the country as mandated by Section 79 of the National Ports Act of 2005,” said Transnet Group Chief Executive Adv Michelle Phillips.
The project is in two phases, with the initial phase entailing the demolition of the existing structure, including foundations, and the installation of tanks, associated infrastructure and a road-loading gantry. It will also entail constructing a bulk transfer of pipelines connecting Mnambithi Terminals to the relevant berths to receive liquid cargo. The second phase will involve the installation of the remaining tanks and associated infrastructure.
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