By Jite Eriabie
Severe weather has wreaked havoc on the Port of Durban grounding three vessels with an MSC containership blocking the harbour entrance.
South Africa’s Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) confirmed that all vessel movements had been suspended in the Port of Durban due to what it described as “inclement weather”.
“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,” the authority said.
Local news reports showed severe flooding in Durban and video of an MSC containership which was blocking the harbour entrance.
Four tugs were reported to be trying to pull the containership clear according to the TimesLive.
TNPA reported no injuries from the severe weather. “Whilst we are still in the process of determining damage to port infrastructure we are relieved 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,” it said.
Operations at the Port of Richards Bay were also expected to be disrupted.
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