Ships, boat drama in harbour and yacht mole
OPERATIONS were brought to a standstill at Durban Port when three ships ran aground due to the storm which pelted the city yesterday. Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) suspended all vessel movements following several emergencies, including one vessel blocking the entrance to the harbour. It took hours to be refloated.
The heavy rain, strong winds and rough seas, caused the ship to break its mooring lines, leaving them drifting in the channel.
TNPA chief executive Shulami Qalinge said its marine services team and tugboats were assisting in turning the vessels. “While we are still in the process of determining the damage to port infrastructure, we are relieved no injuries have been reported,” he said.
On land, several TNPA premises were flooded including the Transnet Maritime School of Excellence in Bayhead Road. The inclement weather led to the suspension of terminal and rail operations for the safety of staff and the equipment.
“We will continue to monitor the situation closely via Port Control and the Harbour Masters’ offices, and will keep stakeholders updated,” said Qalinge.
The weather is also expected to disrupt operations at the Port of Richards Bay.
Craig Miller, the former Commodore of the Point Yacht Club, said at least four boats had sunk.
These were damaged after the marina – shared by the clubs – completely broke apart as the storm smashed into the yachts.
Boats also crashed into each other in the gale force winds, said Millar.
On the beach side, boats were also damaged when the roofs of the sheds blew off on to them.
Millar said this was the worst storm he had seen since becoming a member of the club almost 40 years ago.
“It’s complete chaos… the damage will run into millions of rand. We are grateful that no one was hurt,” he said.