Hambantota International Port Group (HIPG) has released a statement clarifying its policy on vehicle storage. The port currently manages over 50,000 vehicles, encompassing both transshipment and local import units. The clarification addresses concerns about vehicles remaining in the yard for extended periods, specifically noting that approximately 1,278 vehicles have been stored for over three months, and 581 vehicles have exceeded one year of storage.
This announcement comes as the port experiences a continuous increase in its Roll-on/Roll-off (RORO) cargo volumes. The growing number of vehicles, combined with prolonged storage, can lead to yard congestion and operational inefficiencies.
For freight forwarders and operations managers, this situation at Hambantota Port could translate into potential challenges. Extended dwell times for vehicles may incur higher demurrage or storage fees, impacting overall logistics costs. It could also signal potential congestion issues, which might affect vessel turnaround times and the efficiency of RORO operations. Forwarders should closely monitor vehicle release processes and communicate with consignees to avoid prolonged storage and associated charges at Hambantota.
