The Hambantota International Port (HIP) has declared its readiness to elevate its operations, transitioning into a refinery, energy hub, and container transshipment facility. Tissa Wickremasinghe, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of HIPG, emphasized the necessity for a comprehensive approach to container handling in Sri Lanka.
Highlighting the significant potential market, Wickremasinghe expressed the opportunity to capture it under a unified Sri Lankan brand. Additionally, he emphasized the cost-cutting benefits that HIP’s expansion could offer to manufacturers in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly those reaching out to Gulf, European, and African markets.
HIP has earned international acclaim, particularly in the transshipment of vehicles, with recognition as ‘amongst the best in the world.’ Leading shipping lines in the Roll-on/Roll-off (RO-RO) business operate in and out of HIP. The most recent accolade comes from the shipping line MOL, presenting HIP with an appreciation certificate for achieving ZERO damage operation and maintaining safe Pure Car Carrier (PCC) cargo handling from April 1, 2022, to March 31, 2023.
Touting HIP as the only ISO certified port in Sri Lanka with a focus on Quality, Health, Safety, and Environment (QHSE), Wickremasinghe credited the stringent practices and protocols for the port’s success in RORO operations. Yuri Kannangara, General Manager Operations of HIPG, attributed their achievements to state-of-the-art technology, including modern port management systems, cargo tracking technology, and advanced communication tools.
Kannangara emphasized the importance of a robust safety protocol as the first pillar in maintaining standards for RORO port operations. This includes clear signage, designated pathways, and comprehensive emergency response plans. Regular drills and training sessions are conducted to ensure personnel are well-prepared for unforeseen circumstances, he added.
