Gwadar Port completes second commercial bunkering operation, supplies 1,150 tonnes of fuel to LNG carrier

GWADAR: Gwadar Port has successfully completed its second commercial bunkering operation. It is another important step towards promoting Pakistan’s Blue Economy and making Gwadar a regional maritime hub.

During the operation, about 1,150 metric tons of Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (LSFO) were supplied to the LNG carrier M.V. EXCELERATE SHENANDOAH (IMO No. 9321768) at Gwadar Port. The operation lasted all day and was completed in line with international safety, environmental and operational standards.

For the bunkering, the bunker barge M.T. MARINE ISTA came from Karachi to Gwadar and supplied marine fuel to the ship. The operation was completed with the cooperation of the Gwadar Port Authority, Pakistan Customs and other relevant bodies. All legal, regulatory, safety and environmental requirements were fully met.

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs: Gwadar becoming a key centre of maritime trade

According to Gwadar Port Authority officials, Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said the successful completion of the second commercial bunkering operation at Gwadar Port was clear proof that Gwadar was fast emerging as a key centre of international maritime trade and maritime services.

He said that, under government policies, full efforts were under way to provide modern facilities at Gwadar Port, promote investment and offer quality services to global shipping companies. He said the development of Gwadar Port was extremely important not only for Balochistan but also for Pakistan’s economy.

Gwadar Port Chairman Nurul Haq Baloch said the successful completion of the second commercial bunkering operation was a practical sign of the port’s growing capacity, operational ability and the increasing confidence of global shipping companies. He said Gwadar Port was now able to provide reliable marine fuel services. He added that the steady rise in bunkering activity would bring more international ships, new investment, business opportunities and jobs in future.

Nurul Haq Baloch further said that, with the cooperation of all relevant bodies, steps were moving fast to make Gwadar Port a competitive Regional Bunkering and Maritime Logistics Hub. He said providing world-class facilities at the port was among the government’s top priorities.

Photo: courtesy DG PR Balochistan