Commonwealth _ Colombo Dockyard PLC (CDPLC) has signed a significant agreement with Hambantota International Port Group (Private) Ltd (HIPG) to set up a fully-fledged workshop at the HIPG facility. The agreement was inked on July 16, 2024, marking a pivotal moment for maritime services in Sri Lanka.
This new workshop is expected to enhance service availability and speed, providing improved economics for end users. Once operational, the workshop will expand Colombo Dockyard’s service footprint to the southernmost tip of Sri Lanka, strategically positioning the company to serve a wider array of clients efficiently.
Strategic Maritime Location
Hambantota’s strategic maritime location, near key shipping routes, will enable Colombo Dockyard to offer extensive afloat repair services to numerous vessels involved in transshipment, bunkering, and other operations. The HIP port boasts a deep draft, accommodating vessels up to 17 meters, including Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCC). This capacity will significantly benefit the maritime industry, allowing Colombo Dockyard to provide dedicated afloat repairs and maintenance services to a broader range of vessels.
Enhancing Afloat Repair Services
Colombo Dockyard’s Rapid Response Afloat Repair Service (RRARS), launched in 2019, has been instrumental in providing necessary repair support to vessels in Sri Lankan waters. The new workshop at HIP will further enhance this service, leveraging the excellent facilities available at the port. HIP offers over three and a half kilometers of deep draft berths, with select berths equipped with cranage, which will facilitate the execution of speedy and efficient afloat repairs.
These initiatives aim to augment the capacity for afloat repairs in Sri Lanka, offering much-needed auxiliary services to vessels calling at Sri Lankan ports. This development is expected to play a crucial role in generating foreign exchange for the Sri Lankan economy by attracting more international vessels for repairs and maintenance services.
Joint Collaboration and Legacy
Colombo Dockyard operates in joint collaboration with Onomichi Dockyard Co. Ltd, Japan, a partnership that has been in place since 1993. Colombo Dockyard will be celebrating 50 years of operations in 2024, marking a half-century since its establishment in 1974. This milestone highlights the company’s longstanding commitment to excellence and innovation in maritime services.
Agreement Signing
The agreement was signed by Mr. Johnson Liu, Chief Executive Officer of Hambantota International Port Group (Pvt) Limited, and Mr. Thimira S. Godakumbura, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Colombo Dockyard PLC. The HIPG team present at the signing ceremony included Mr. Bindu Ranasinghe, Deputy General Manager of Commercial and Marketing; Mr. Henry Liu, Executive of Commercial and Marketing; Ms. Jayathmi Gamachchige, Assistant Manager of Commercial and Marketing; Ms. Deshani Koralage, Senior Manager of Legal; Mr. Kavindu Abesuriya, Senior Executive of Legal; and Mr. Ranjith Withanawasm.
Future Prospects
This collaboration between Colombo Dockyard and HIPG is expected to bring significant advancements in maritime services in Sri Lanka. The fully-fledged workshop at HIP will not only improve service efficiency but also contribute to the overall economic growth of the region. The strategic location and advanced facilities of HIP will attract more international vessels for repairs, thereby boosting Sri Lanka’s position as a key maritime hub.
The establishment of a fully-fledged workshop at Hambantota International Port by Colombo Dockyard marks a significant step forward in enhancing the country’s maritime capabilities. This initiative reflects Colombo Dockyard’s commitment to providing top-notch repair and maintenance services, reinforcing its position as a leader in the maritime industry. The partnership with HIPG and the continued collaboration with Onomichi Dockyard Co. Ltd. underscores the company’s dedication to excellence and innovation, ensuring that Sri Lanka remains a pivotal player in the global maritime sector.
