Three ships to call at Magampura harbour

by Shirajiv SIRIMANE

Three ships carrying fertiliser will call at the Magampura harbour from next month.

Minister of Ports and Aviation, Dayasritha Tissera told the Sunday Observer said that these ships would transport fertiliser and this service would operate on a regular basis.

In addition, four cement producing companies have also shown an interest to set up ventures at the Magampura Port.

“These companies would bring cement in bulk and pack them at Magampura. Some of the cement would be used locally while the rest would be re-exported.”

He said that this service is expected to start in January next year.

The Minister who toured the Magampura Port yesterday said that due to the rapid development taking place in the area there is an increased demand for cement and other building materials.

MasterDivers Ltd which has its production factory in proximity will export their products from Magampura.

Laugfs Gas Lanka which is building a yard in Hambantota would use the services of the new Port.

In addition, several other vessels carrying essential items to Colombo are keen to use the Magampura Port, due to the ‘free Port’ facility.

Meanwhile, over 65 investors have already shown an interest and have sent applications to launch projects in the new harbour. “We are currently evaluating these applications and shortlisting suitable companies,” he said. Proposals have been presented to set up vehicle assembly plants mainly for re-export. Several companies engaged in providing naval related activities too have applied to set up ventures at Hambantota.

Unveiling plans for the opening ceremony on November 19, by President Mahinda Rajapaksa, he said that three ships would enter the harbour at 10. 30 a.m.

The Jetliner ship would bring the Buddhist clergy who would chant Pirith The Minister said that the Magampura Port is a birthday gift by President Mahinda Rajapaksa to the nation.