BUSINESS NEWS
Transnet pumps R2.5bn into Coega
Posted Fri, 07 Jul 2006
The deep-water harbour at Coega in the Eastern Cape has taken a step closer to completion with a R2.5-billion injection from Transnet for infrastructure development.
The Herald Online reported on Thursday the money would be used for container terminal equipment, cranes and straddle carriers. This would see the Port of Ngqura start operating by 2008.
The money would be made available to the port via the National Ports Authority, a subsidiary of Transnet.
"There is exploratory work going on now. Contracts will go on tender and will be awarded by September," said National Ports Authority resident engineer Chris Matchett.
The container quay, which currently makes provision for two ships, would also be extended to accommodate four ships.
Three berths would also be built at a separate quay to accommodate two dry bulk ships and one tanker.
"Ideally we would like to have two container berths completed by December, 2008. That‘s when the
first ship is expected to dock at the port," Matchet said.
"The current container quay is just over 700 metres. When completed, it will be about 1400 metres. Part of the money may also be used for a railway line to connect the Coega station to the main railway line from Port Elizabeth to Johannesburg."
Sapa
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