City and TNPA forge future partnerships

THE Durban Dig-out Port (DOP) and other major projects were discussed in a meeting between Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) and municipal officials on Wednesday, 7 October, with the aim of initiating further partnerships between the two.

Hoping to improve growth and investment in the port and therefore the city, officials met to discuss opportunities to partner with TNPA.

The discussions included current port operations, planned projects and an update on the Durban DDOP. New projects included, among others, the cruise terminal expansion, which will house 4,000 people, parking for 600 vehicles and a retail area and is expected to boost tourism.

Deputy mayor, Councillor Nomvuzo Shabalala said: “I am happy about the improvement of the cruise terminal, which will have an impact on the tourism section. I want to see the project moving faster.”

eThekwini mayor, Councillor James Nxumalo was optimistic about the conversation. According to him, the expansion of the port, including the DDOP is an amazing project as it will employ between 10,000 and 20,000 people in the next 50 years.

“During the meeting a number of issues were raised including security risks at Maydon Wharf, which we view as a matter of urgency. We have also agreed to partner in hosting the port festival to be held next year,” said Nxumalo.