Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) has announced the addition of 200 cargo coordinators and the establishment of dedicated lanes for refrigerated containers across all KwaZulu-Natal container terminals, aiming to enhance the citrus fruit export process. This development comes as a response to the congestion issues that have previously affected the sector's performance. Despite a modest increase in packed cartons for global delivery, the Citrus Growers' Association of Southern Africa (CGA) noted that the 165.1-million 15-kg cartons in 2023 fell short of expectations.
Anticipating a fruitful harvest, TPT is preparing for a 15% surge in export volumes, with the CGA predicting growth in the export of various citrus fruits. To support this increase, Michelle van Buren Schele, TPT's commercial and planning GM, outlined several initiatives, including the expansion of truck appointment slots, the recruitment and training of additional personnel, the introduction of new equipment to boost landside operations, and the enhancement of container turnaround times by allowing stacking up to six containers high. Additionally, the maintenance of electric plugs for refrigerated containers has been prioritized, with significant numbers of plug points confirmed across terminals in Durban and Gqeberha.
Communication strategies have also been expanded to include the entire supply chain, aiming for increased flexibility and full utilization of the 24-hour operational window at terminals.
Source: engineeringnews.co.za