By While the state-owned corporation prepares to begin offering bunkering services in the Maldives, the initial vessel essential for the operation arrived just last week.
Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) has brought the second vessel necessary to begin bunkering services in the north of the nation. The additional vessel has now been moored in Haa Dhaalu atoll’s Kulhudhuffushi island.
MPL CEO Mohamed Wajeeh stated that the two bunkering vessels, a tug boat, and pilot boats have now docked in Ihavandhippolhu, preparing to begin providing offshore bunkering services.
Mr. Mohamed Wajeeh stated in one of his Facebook posts that “The International Ship and Port Security Gate (ISPS Gate) has also been installed and all the necessary preparations have been completed to start the bunkering service.”
Mr. Wajeeh also stated that in addition to bunkering services, the facility will provide 14 additional amenities for overseas consumers. That will increase the potential for profit for various government departments, privately owned companies, and people.
“Hopefully, as the second phase of this project, the oil terminal and oil tanks will be installed in the area,” he said.
MPL has developed a unique website, ums.mv, designed to educate prospective customers about the marine amenities offered by the Maldives facility.
Despite the State Trading Organisation (STO) and MPL had intended to begin operations the previous day, however, it was postponed due to setbacks in the arrival of the vessel caused by adverse weather conditions.
On March 13, STO concluded an agreement with Vitol of the Netherlands to put into effect the Maldives Economic Gateway International Bunkering Facility.
According to the authorities, around 300 new ships cruise near Ihavandippollu each day.