Transnet Port Terminals plans shut down for system upgrade

File picture: Leon Lestrade. African News Agency. ( ANA ).

File picture: Leon Lestrade. African News Agency. ( ANA ).

Published May 11, 2021

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* This story has been updated.

Durban - In a move aimed at improving efficiencies, Transnet Port Terminals will temporarily shut down its operations at the country's eight port terminals to upgrade its terminal operating technology.

This is a maintenance practice occurring every two years where both the company and its customers plan in advance for the 24-hour shutdown.

“As technology becomes an integral part of executing daily tasks, the upgrade introduces improved performance, reliability, security and scalability,” spokesperson Mbali Mathenjwa said.

She said the shutdown would take place from 6am on May 15 until 6am the following day, allowing for the launch of a newer version of the Navi SPARCS N4 3.7. container terminal operating system.

“We have been using Navis SPARCS N4 in our container terminal operations for a period of 14 years, maximising the potential and benefits the software offers to afford great value to our customers. This newer version offers nothing less,” said Sharla Chetty, Chief Financial Officer at TPT, a division of Transnet SOC Ltd.

Chetty said the software upgrade to version 3.7 would set the new architectural foundation for added enhanced features and capabilities that Navis would have to offer.

The Navis Smart platform would bring in apps such as the Truck booking application and real-time operations insights together with other optimised features such as Berth and Equipment Optimisation, she said.

Industry engagements were ongoing to ensure integrated planning as the Durban, Port Elizabeth and Ngqura container terminals this month began the seasonal export of citrus fruit.

“We have contingency plans in place in the event of any unforeseen delays. However, the set of skills and experience that our ICT team possesses is very encouraging,” said Chetty.

“The ICT team will be remotely supported by an experienced team of Navis engineers from around the world.

“During the cut-over and support period both teams will ensure timeous resolution should any issues be experienced. The teams have collaboratively rehearsed the upgrade on multiple occasions, adopting a remote working approach, the results of which have been successful,” she said.

THE MERCURY

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