Troubled port: Transnet and foreign operator face scrutiny over backlog at Durban Gateway Terminal
The freight sector and the President are concerned about the serious slowdown of cargo at Durban harbour, but the status of Durban Gateway Terminal as a public-private partnership muddies the waters of accountability.
The Durban Gateway Terminal (DGT), a joint public-private partnership between Transnet and foreign operator International Container Terminal Services Inc (ICTSI), is facing significant scrutiny over the severe backlog at the port. The crisis has raised concerns among the freight sector and President Cyril Ramaphosa, who has not been provided with updates on the situation from Transnet.
ICTSI, holding a 51% stake in DGT, has been tasked with driving improvement, but questions remain over Transnet's role and the expected timeline for resolving the ripple effect of vessel backlogs, longer turnaround times, and delayed imports. Recent improvements have only managed to stabilize the situation, with cargo flows picking up slightly, but not enough to significantly reduce the backlog.
The average waiting time for a ship at anchorage remains at 12 days, and clearing the backlog within 30 days at the current pace is highly unlikely. President Ramaphosa acknowledged the ongoing issues and emphasized the need for coordinated plans and solutions for the Port of Durban's expansion.
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