The Port of Durban has made major strides in tackling the operational and capacity issues that hindered its performance in recent years. Once challenged by severe backlogs, outdated infrastructure, and a shortage of equipment, the port is now benefiting from targeted interventions by Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) aimed at restoring efficiency and strengthening its role as a key trade hub.
As South Africa’s largest and busiest container terminal, located in KwaZulu-Natal, the Port of Durban handles roughly 60% of the country’s container traffic. Its operations cover a wide range of cargo, including containers, vehicles, dry bulk, break bulk, and liquid bulk. The port’s economic contribution is extensive, supporting business operations, creating jobs, boosting factory productivity, driving tourism, and generating significant national revenue. It also offers vital marine services such as dredging, navigational support, ship repairs, and pilotage.
TNPA’s recovery plan, launched during heavy congestion between November 2023 and January 2024, prioritises close coordination with stakeholders through daily operational meetings. The authority has invested in new cargo handling equipment, expanded the tug jetty, and upgraded critical road infrastructure to improve cargo flow.
In 2024, Transnet committed R3.4 billion to strengthening its equipment fleet, directing most of this investment to the Durban Container Terminal (DCT). New assets arriving between April and December 2025 include four ship-to-shore cranes, 40 haulers, and 67 trailers to replace ageing machinery at Piers 1 and 2. In addition, TNPA has acquired seven new tugboats under its Marine Fleet Renewal Programme—five assigned to Durban—to improve vessel manoeuvring and reduce turnaround times. The completion of the Tug Jetty Expansion Project has also increased berthing capacity for tugboats, enhancing operational readiness.
To address road damage caused by rising truck volumes, TNPA allocated R233 million for road rehabilitation in key precincts such as Maydon Wharf and Island View. The upgrades aim to maintain efficient cargo movement and safeguard the port’s role as South Africa’s economic gateway.
The Prince Edward Dry Dock, dating back to the 1920s, continues to be an important ship repair and maintenance facility, generating employment in marine engineering and supporting vessel certification. Beyond ongoing infrastructure improvements, TNPA remains committed to safeguarding existing jobs and contributing to national economic growth.
In March 2024, Transnet invited bids for a 25-year concession to design, develop, and operate a multi-purpose terminal in the Maydon Wharf Precinct. Spanning 145 hectares with 15 berths, the site handles over seven million tonnes of mixed cargo annually. This initiative forms part of Transnet’s broader effort to modernise infrastructure, optimise cargo handling, and maintain the Port of Durban’s position as a leading trade gateway in the region.
source: maritimafrica.com
