Transnet halts ship movements in SA amid severe winter storms

SOUTH AFRICA – Heavy winter storms have caused significant disruptions along South Africa’s west and east coasts, prompting the national transport authority, Transnet, to temporarily halt ship movements due to safety concerns.

This suspension follows severe weather warnings predicting gale-force winds, heavy rain, and flooding.

The harsh weather conditions have particularly affected ports in the Western and Eastern Cape. Cape Town, Saldanha, Port Elizabeth, and Ngqura ports have suspended operations.

Transnet stated, “The port authority resolved on not berthing any more vessels until Wednesday and port terminal gates have been closed since.”

Cape Town Container Terminal is currently dealing with high swells, preventing three vessels from operating due to the terminal’s wind-bound status.

The Ngqura Container Terminal completed its last vessel operations early Sunday morning before the shutdown.

The agricultural sector, especially in the Cape citrus regions along the west coast, has been severely impacted by these closures.

Citrus growers are unable to harvest this week, and packing activities have been disrupted. Boet Mouton, spokesperson for the Summer Citrus Association, commented on the situation: “While it is inconvenient for the citrus sector to deal with the bad weather at the peak of their season, they were still maintaining supply. We do not know what the effect will be on our export operations, but it is likely to occur over the next months.” Additionally, one vessel scheduled to load citrus for the US market has been cancelled.

Despite these disruptions, there is a silver lining for some agricultural producers. The table grape, apple, pear, and stonefruit seasons are currently in their winter phase.

Provided there is no structural damage, the growers welcome the cold and rain. Ample water in dams and sufficient winter rest promise a quality season ahead.

Heavy snowfall has been reported in the Cape Mountain regions and as far as the usually dry Great Karoo landscape.

These weather patterns have forced Transnet to take precautionary measures, prioritizing safety amid the severe conditions.

For all the latest fresh produce industry news updates from Africa, the Middle East, and the World, subscribe to our NEWSLETTER, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn, like us on Facebook, and subscribe to our YouTube channel.