By: Staff Writer
September 10 (LNW):Hambantota International Port (HIP) has experienced a significant surge in the number of vessels arriving for repairs and layups this year, signaling impressive growth in its operations.
From January to August 2024, the port welcomed 23 vessels for these services, marking a 53% increase from the 15 vessels it handled during the same period in 2023. Notably, August alone saw the arrival of two vessels, with a third vessel concluding a seven-month layup and repair at the port.
Charaka Rupasinghe, Deputy General Manager – Marine Services and Fleet Management at HIP, emphasized the competitive nature of the port services market.
He highlighted HIP’s capability to accommodate vessels of all sizes for both afloat and underwater repairs, along with the numerous berths available for long-term layups. Rupasinghe anticipates further expansion in this segment in the coming year, attributing HIP’s success to its state-of-the-art facilities and international-standard services.
This particular market in port services is highly competitive and we already have several operators with different expertise offering their services from Hambantota International Port. With our capacity to accommodate vessels of all sizes for afloat and underwater repairs and the numerous berths we have allocated for this business, he added,
Among the vessels serviced, the Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel “Svetah Venetia” completed a seven-month layup and extensive repairs, departing on August 21, 2024. Additionally, the M.V. ‘Ram Commander’ underwent short-term repairs from August 3 to 22, while the bulk carrier “Archon Gabriel” docked on August 26 for hydraulic system maintenance and departed on September 3.
HIP operates under strict protocols of health and safety. We constantly monitor our standards which are aligned with CM Port’s global practices operating in 50 terminals across the world. Therefore, any vessel berthing at HIP can be assured of services that are of international standards. Our management and staff know what is expected of them and are committed to serve round the clock.
The added advantage of the port is its location which is easily accessible to vessels plying the east-west shipping routes,” says Capt. Miyuru Gunasekara, General Manager, Hambantota International Port Services (HIPS).
The current increase in vessel activity is a testament to HIP’s growing reputation as a key player in the ship repair and layup sector, reinforcing its role as a critical multipurpose hub in global maritime logistics.
Capt. Miyuru Gunasekara, General Manager of Hambantota International Port Services (HIPS), assured that HIP operates under strict health and safety protocols, aligned with global standards. He also highlighted the port’s strategic location on the east-west shipping routes, making it an accessible and preferred destination for vessel services.
The recent uptick in vessel activity solidifies HIP’s position as a key player in the ship repair and layup sector, further establishing its role as a vital multipurpose hub in global maritime logistics.
