Significant progress made on work to restore IT system
27 July 2021
Significant progress has been made in restoring Transnet SOC Ltd ("Transnet") IT systems, with most of the affected applications up by Monday 26 July 2021.
It is expected that some applications may continue to run slowly over the next few days, while monitoring continues. All operating systems will be brought back in a staggered manner, to minimise further risks and interruptions.
At the ports, each container terminal has communicated its transition plan from manual operation to the full NAVIS-driven operation.
The terminals are berthing vessels as planned and facilitating loading and discharge operations with the shipping lines. We will continue to work directly with shipping lines in order to facilitate maximum import evacuation and further exports planned for future vessels. Controls have been developed, in conjunction with the shipping lines and SARS' Customs division to ensure safe clearance and evacuation of each container.
A force majeure, communicated by Transnet Port Terminals on 26 July 2021 to customers, covering the period from 22 July 2021 is expected to be lifted soon.
The business continuity plans have enabled Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) to continue utilising manual backup operations, and run trains as planned. We wish to assure stakeholders and customers that all processes followed allow for the safe operation of trains.
We have requested customers with cross-border traffic and where the SARS clearance process is applicable, to submit hard copies of the SARS clearance documentation with their consignment noted at the Order Entry Office/Terminals. This will assist in the manual system application to authorise the departure of trains.
The salaries of Transnet employees have been processed on schedule; there was never a doubt that as an organisation we will not honour our obligation to our employees.
Transnet will continue to engage and collaborate with affected customers. A further update will be provided once full operations resume.
Issued by Ayanda Shezi, Spokesperson, Transnet, 27 July 2021
