‘Unloading vehicles at H’tota to go ahead’

16 April 2012 01:03 pm Views - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}} 8 Bookmark

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The decision to unload motor vehicles imported to Sri Lanka at Hambantota Port remains unchanged despite ‘disparaging remarks by some parties’, Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) said in a statement.

“SLPA would like to state that the ongoing process of handling ships carrying vehicles at Magam Ruhunupura Mahinda Rajapaksa Port from 31st May 2012 will remain as decided,” the statement noted.

According to SLPA, at present, due to non-availability of dedicated automobile terminal in the Port of Colombo and lack of yard storage areas, Roll-on Roll-off vessels have suffered long delays in berthing.

“This has in turn resulted in operators increasing freight rates to Colombo, and this increased freight cost has to be borne by Sri Lankan importers. Furthermore, major Ro-Ro operators could not promote automobile transshipment business over the Port of Colombo,” SLPA said.

Comments - 8

j Monday, 16 April 2012 01:16 PM

Good decision. Hambantota area has to be developed too.

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Jazz Tuesday, 17 April 2012 06:39 AM

Good decision which has been made in the best interest of Colombo Port operations as well. Hambantota Port also stands to benefit.

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veththa. Tuesday, 17 April 2012 07:00 AM

we need an another port in Mahiyangana, than our area also will be develop..!

5 37

Ashan Tuesday, 17 April 2012 07:18 AM

This is to increase revenue to Hambanthota Port, if not how are they suppose to pay the interest for the Chinese loans

6 26

iz Tuesday, 17 April 2012 08:00 AM

Now all of the ships have to travel an additional distance to unload. Not to mention the fact that all the vehicles need to travel back to the Capitol as well... What a waste of time and resources.

10 28

Private Eye Tuesday, 17 April 2012 07:58 AM

Obviously a bad idea, with vested interest.

9 21

Nodrog Tuesday, 17 April 2012 12:03 PM

This port was declared open prematurely just to boost some inflated egos. If it was opened after properly completing the work, ships would have definitely made use of the facilities. It will be the same with Mattala airport.

4 23

John Goyya Wednesday, 18 April 2012 06:58 AM

If the ships are coming from Japan or Thailand it will be less distance, no? Check a world map.

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