State-owned Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) reports that the upgrade of Newark road, which serves as one of the Port of Richards Bay’s most important access routes, is 75% complete.
Since the start of the project in May, about 1 km of Newark road has been successfully upgraded.
The road has been temporarily closed to maintain safe port operations, which is supported by the ports authority’s implementation of a comprehensive traffic management plan for alternative access routes.
The road carries an estimated 67 289 light motor vehicles and 35 000 heavy vehicles each month, which highlights its importance to efficient cargo flow and port logistics, TNPA says.
Further, the Bayvue port entrance will remain closed during the repairs, with light motor vehicles diverted to enter the port through Urania road near the Pioneer Centre and being able to exit through the San Thom road gate.
Heavy vehicles can access the port through West gate on Urania road, proceed to port terminals via Clinker road and exit through the East gate on Newark road, says TNPA Port of Richards Bay port manager Captain Dennis Mqadi.
Further, the R20-million Newark road capital project is scheduled for completion in December and forms part of TNPA’s drive to modernise port infrastructure to enhance the safety and efficiency of cargo movement for port users.
“This strategic investment will ensure that the Port of Richards Bay continues to operate as a world-class logistics hub.
“We will continue to engage with port users on project developments to ensure smooth transition both now and when the road upgrades are completed this festive season,” he says. 
