Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) has lifted the force majeure declared across all its container terminals due to the recent strike by port workers that brought the country’s ports to its knees.
TPT spokesperson Ayanda Shezi said in a statement late on Monday that the parastatal had lifted the force majeure with effect from October 31.
“This follows the successful implementation of recovery plans to stabilise operational performance and efficiencies across all container handling terminals. The terminals are now ready to return to pre-strike planning of operations, which promotes maximum imports and exports.”
She added that with effect from November 1, all container vessels would be berthed in accordance with the pre-strike berthing window schedules and all containers should be removed within the free storage period.
TPT declared force majeure during the recent national strike when the parastatal’s ability to comply with its contractual obligations was compromised and portions of terminal operations were scaled down. The force majeure declared in the automotive, bulk and multipurpose terminals was lifted on October 21, immediately after the full workforce resumed duty.
“TPT would like to thank its customers and industry broadly for their support and understanding during this period. TPT wishes to thank its employees for working tirelessly in clearing the backlog, resulting in the force majeure uplifted as committed earlier,” Shezi said.
