The Robinson Dry Dock dewatering upgrade was undertaken to modernize one of the world’s oldest dry docks, originally commissioned in 1888, as part of Operation Phakisa. The project, valued at R46.1 million and executed between October 2021 and April 2023, addressed the critical failure risks of the outdated dewatering system, ensuring the dock could continue servicing commercial vessels at international standards.
The works included converting the “basic engineering design” to construction-ready detail, decommissioning and disposing of the original system, and fabricating new pipework, submersible pump columns, automated penstocks, staircases, and ladders. The scope also covered procurement of main dewatering pumps, drainage and seepage pumps, and valves, alongside MCC installation and SCADA-operated system controls. This comprehensive modernisation has extended the operational life of a strategic maritime asset in the Port of Cape Town.