More ships to call at H'tota port
Two more ships will call at the Hambantota Port this month, said
Chief Engineer, Southern Port Development, Agil Hewageegana.
He said another six metres have to be dredged on the 35- metre
stretch of the harbour mouth and that its completion would create a
sufficient depth for large vessels to anchor at the port.
Hewageegana said they hope to complete work on this stretch before
the end of the year and begin work on the next stage of the port.
He said four vessels could be berthed at the port; on completion of
the second stage five more could be berthed.
President Mahinda Rajapaksa commissioned the first stage of the
Magampura Harbour with the arrival of the Navy Jetliner on Thursday.
The strategic location of the port makes it unique in the region.
The Southern sea route of shipping lines will help attract vessels to
the port.
Hewageegana said work on the second stage of the Hambantota port
commenced last week and added that the project will be completed within
three years.
The second stage of the port is estimated to cost around US$ 750
million. The port is constructed by China Harbour Engineering
Corporation and is funded by Exim Bank of China.
It will provide facilities for port-related industries such as
bunkering, ship repairs, maintenance, logistics, buying provisions,
entertainment and medical supply.
- LF
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