Dig-out port faces hurdles
TRANSNET has a few hurdles to clear before its proposed Durban dig-out port, still in the pre-feasibility phase, can become a reality.
The biggest challenge the company currently faces is the relocation of the Single Buoy Mooring (SBM), currently sited offshore of Sapref and which is located near the proposed entrance and breakwater of the port. The SBM, which is a national key point, has an exclusion zone around it that prohibits any construction or developments. This zone overlaps the proposed dig-out port’s breakwater.
Transnet is currently devising viable options to relocate the SBM, which transports imported oil to refineries, with security of supply throughout the process being of paramount importance. Programme director for the dig-out port, Marc Descoins said he hoped it will be relocated by the end of 2016 so construction of the port can commence.
The bulk of the land required for the dig out port was acquired through the purchase of the old Durban Airport in December 2012, but portions of surrounding properties are yet to be obtained. Some of this land is owned by private businesses and individuals and could potentially cause problems for the company.
“We have been in talks with the owners and in most cases the land acquisitions should run smoothly, however others are resisting,” said Descoins. When asked if expropriation was an option, he said it was a last resort and will only be considered if all alternatives fail.
Transnet will also have to take into consideration the findings of an environmental impact assessment (EIA) of the proposed port area, including the SBM. The EIA is set to commence in the coming weeks and be completed by the end of next year. The findings will determine how much the parastatal will have to invest in rehabilitation and the relocation of fauna and flora and what ecosystems are too sensitive to interfere with. Of great concern is the protection of the endangered dwarf chameleon, Pickersgill’s reed frog, blue duicker and bats.
The breakwater and port designs have been whittled down to a few options and a finalised plan is expected by the end of 2015. Descoins confirmed that the breakwater will take into account the natural flow of the water and the potential for sand build-up and erosion.
Should everything go according to plan, the harbour is expected to start accepting its first ships by 2020.
– erinh@dbn.caxton.co.za
