The KZN Growth Coalition welcomes the urgent steps taken by Transnet SOC Ltd to repair damage caused by the recent KwaZulu-Natal floods, which will make a substantial difference in restoring economic activity in the province.
Transnet’s interventions – which include repairing and reopening the line on the container corridor between Durban and Cato Ridge – have resulted in the reinstatement of freight traffic between Gauteng and Durban harbour, and have provided great relief to both the provincial government and business in the province.
At the same time, the KZN Growth Coalition welcomes Transnet’s decision to provide additional facilities in Durban’s Bayhead Road, ensuring that delays are avoided when moving traffic to the Durban Container Terminals and Island View Precinct.
The KZN Growth Coalition has been impressed by the speed at which Transnet has moved to repair flood damage to its rail and port facilities, and is confident that the reopening of rail links and the restoration work at the port will enable substantially increased economic activity in the province.
Transnet is also to be commended for providing work opportunities for local community members in its restoration programme – for example, the employment of more than 1300 community members as fixed-term contract staff.
The floods had a major impact on economic activity in the province, and both government and business appreciate the speed and focus of Transnet in responding to the crisis, and in ensuring that logistical links with the rest of the country are restored as a matter of urgency.
We are more than satisfied with the leadership shown by Transnet in getting the wheels of our economy moving again. This was a massive task, the scale of which should not be under-estimated, and Transnet’s rapid and effective response is to be commended.
For more information:
Kim Foxon
Email: kfoxon@icon.co.za