THE Port of Richards Bay shifted more than 7,9 million tons of cargo, excluding vehicles, in December.

This is according to the latest statistics released by Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), which recorded a total of 19,1 million tons of cargo at the country’s eight ports last month.

ALSO READ: TAKE NOTE: Water shortages in Empangeni, eSikhaleni and Ngwelezana

Although it is a substantial decline compared to the 9,5 million tons moved in November, Richards Bay also recorded 7,9 million tons in December 2019.

A total of five vehicles were handled at the local port with four being exports and one import.

Among the 143 vessels with a gross tonnage of 5,8 million docking in the port, 116 were for bulk and 20 were tankers, of which six were for oil and 14 for chemicals.

While the country’s ports remain operational during the Covid-19 lockdown, the Port of Richards Bay was among those negatively impacted by the pandemic.

According to Transnet’s financial results, Richards Bay’s Dry Bulk Terminal loading rate declined to 800 tons per hour for the six-month period. The loading rate was 828 tons per hour in 2019.

‘The general slowdown in economic activity saw a decline in performance of key sectors, including mining and manufacturing.

‘Bulk terminals were operating at reduced capacity during the initial hard lockdown, which weighed heavily on the exports of iron ore, manganese and chrome,’ said Transnet spokesperson, Ayanda Shezi.

HAVE YOUR SAY

Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.

For news straight to your phone invite us:

WhatsApp – 060 784 2695

Instagram – zululand_observer