Update: Transnet Refloats Vessel Grounded at Port of Durban Entrance

MarineLink October 10, 2017

One of three vessels that has grounded in the Port of Durban today due to inclement weather has been successfully refloated and remoored alongside.

Port teams remain on scene attending to the remaining vessels. TNPA has also managed to contain containers that had blown into the bay.

At this stage vessel movements in the Port of Durban remain suspended until futher notice. No severe disruptions have been reported thus far at the Port of Richards Bay.

TNPA earlier invoked a Business Continuity Plan (BCP) at its head office and the Port of Durban to ensure that it manages the situation closely. The BCP will be operational on a 24-hour basis until TNPA has restored operations.

Earlier Today

Transnet National Ports Authority said that all vessel movements have been suspended in the Port of Durban due to inclement weather. The inclement weather is also expected to disrupt operations at the Port of Richards Bay.

Transnet’s marine services team and tugboats are assisting with several emergencies. These include the grounding of three vessels in the Port of Durban. Other vessels have broken mooring lines and are drifting in the channel.

While authorities are still in the process of determining damage to port infrastructure it said that no injuries have been reported. Several TNPA premises have been flooded including the Transnet Maritime School of Excellence in Bayhead Road. Terminal and rail operations have been suspended to ensure the safety of people and equipment.