FACING escalating anger from Richards Bay residents, Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) finally succumbed on Tuesday, banning coal-laden trucks from entering or exiting the Port of Richards Bay’s east gate via Medway Road. The unofficial ‘anti-coal coalition’, comprising residents, businesses, sport bodies, environmentalists, community groups, motorists and other voices – including the Richards Bay Clean Association (RBCAA) and City of uMhlathuze – have steadily piled the pressure on TNPA, forcing the State-run entity to do an about-turn. And while it will no doubt upset those in the trucking industry, the port had no other option in the wake of the mass destruction of infrastructure; rutted and ruined John Ross highway, Medway and other roads, and general unhygienic and unhealthy conditions. Sick (literally) and tired of coal dust and sludge – in places over half a metre deep – plus dirty homes, cars, yards and lungs, the people have said ‘enough is enough’, leaving TNPA no room to manoeuvre.
After a full review of the current access arrangement for trucks was undertaken, a statement, issued by acting port manager Winnie Mpanza, reads: “The port has received numerous complaints regarding infrastructure damage and environmental pollution on the road leading to the east gate entrance. The challenges are emanating from road motor transport (RMT) conveying cargo to the terminals. “In the interest of the surrounding community, neighbouring businesses and port users at large, immediate intervention had to be adopted to mitigate and alleviate the issues at hand.” New rules As of Wednesday, the following applies: RMTs transporting dirty cargo are prohibited from using the east gate entrance, and must travel through the west gate and the truck staging gate. From there, these RMTs will access the gravel road located opposite the 6 Series area. Only RMTs transporting clean cargo will be permitted to enter the port through the east gate. “This decision prioritises the interest of the surrounding community and neighbouring businesses for a clean environment,” said Mpanza. “It further ensures port operations proceed without interruption, that traffic flow remains smooth, and that ongoing maintenance of the port road network continues with minimal disruption.” While this is a battle won by the community, it leaves many unanswered question, with no reference made as to who will pay for the clean-up and repair work needed to restore a semblance of normality to the coal-devastated roads and environment.
Source: Zululand Observer
