Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has announced the gradual resumption of operations after severe storms hit the Western Cape coast, leading to a temporary suspension of shipping movements for safety reasons.
In a statement released late Thursday, TNPA reported that operations at the Port Elizabeth Bulk Terminal, Saldanha, and Cape Town Multipurpose Terminal had resumed on Wednesday. However, some ports are still facing challenges due to adverse weather conditions.
“The Cape Town Container Terminal is still experiencing high swells and remains wind-bound, impacting two vessels that are unable to dock.
TNPA is assessing the movements of smaller ships that can be docked during this period,” the statement read.
TNPA confirmed that no adverse incidents have been reported at any of its ports in the region.
“TNPA remains committed to ensuring the safety of employees and port infrastructure. Meanwhile, the Eastern Cape terminals are operating intermittently to ensure employee safety,” TNPA stated.
Western Cape terminals are expected to fully resume operations on Friday afternoon, while KwaZulu-Natal terminals are operating normally.
The TNPA notice followed stormy conditions in the region, with heavy winds of up to 35 knots and rain causing severe flooding and road closures across parts of the Western Cape.