Durban Container Terminal (DCT) Pier 2 will over the next four months undergo protection of seabed erosion and the quay wall resulting in the outage of two berths on the South Quay namely 108 and 109.

During this period, calling vessels will be diverted to DCT Pier 1, Maydon Wharf and Durban Ro-Ro while some transhipments will be handled at the Ngqura Container Terminal (NCT) in the Eastern Cape Region.

Karl Socikwam,Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) Chief Executive, says “To keep DCT at an acceptable operational level, it is necessary for the planned maintenance and safety critical works to take place across the collapsing stacking area and weakening quayside. This will also minimise the risks posed to operating landside equipment and our employees. At the same time all efforts continue to be aimed at improvement in operational efficiencies and to ensure the safety of customer cargo.”

The scour protection project is part of a broader rehabilitation programme at the 108 and 109 berths inclusive of the repairing of stacks against wear and tear, restoration of roadways and the refurbishment of four cranes. Commissioned in 2002 and 2007 respectively, the cranes will during the said four months undergo structural corrosion protection, replacement of motors, gearboxes and electrical components including upgrading the PLC systems.

The programme will be carried out in four phases commencing in February. Phase 1 will be concluded in June where after, vessels of suitable sizes will be accommodated.  Phase 2 and 3 will isolate certain portions of the stacking area behind berth 108. Smaller vessels will continue to be diverted to nearby terminals until October. Phase 4 will see minimum impact to berths 108 and 109 when berth 202 bays undergo refurbishment.