Ship-to-ship (STS) operations for LPG cargo heading for Bangladesh have begun at Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port.
Ship-to-ship (STS) operations for LPG cargo heading for Bangladesh have begun at Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port. Apart from ushering in a new era in Indo-Bangladesh relations, it would also provide connectivity between Kolkata Port and Bangladesh’s Mongla port, where the LPG cargo will be delivered.
Following the successful operation of STS for LPG and other liquid cargo heading for Haldia, STS operator Pace Marine Solutions Pvt Ltd approached SMPK with a proposal in October/November 2021. Apart from SMPK, Calcutta Customs took the initiative by allowing the operation in a timely manner.
The STS operation involving Floater and LPG barges was previously carried out in Indonesia, and SMP, Kolkata is the first major port in the country to do so within its jurisdiction. The above mentioned operation will generate revenue for the Port in the form of vessel and cargo related charges. A new venture has offered its Tug for towing and laying Yokohama fenders for safe berthing of vessels at sea. In addition, the Tug will serve as a Fire Float.
Ship-to-ship movement involves, transfer of liquid bulk cargo from a mother vessel to a daughter vessel of similar size or smaller size but with the same technical specifications involves the transfer of LPG, CBFS (Carbon Black Feed Stock), crude oil, LNG, and other types of liquid cargo from a mother vessel to a daughter vessel of similar size or smaller size but with the same technical specifications. Through this operation dead freight of vessels in a port of shallow draft is considerably reduced.
