After a gap of 28 years, night navigation of a fully loaded oil product vessel was successfully started in Pakistan.
Oil tank MT. The Ardmore, carrying imported motor gasoline, was docked at Fauji Oil Terminal and Distribution Company (FOTCO) by the Port Qasim Authority (PQA) on May 10, according to night navigation protocols.
“This marks the successful launch of fully functional night navigation for oil tankers calling at PQA, a major breakthrough in oil import handling operations in Pakistan,” the company said in a press statement issued in this regard.
It is noted that this initiative will increase the oil vessel handling capacity of the port and FOTCO by up to 30%, translating into a handling capacity of 18 vessels per month, which will resolve port congestion and save major delays faced by importers during peak season.
The growing need for petroleum products coupled with the increasing dependence on imports ensure the efficient functioning of port infrastructures across the country,” the statement said.
With FOTCO and PQA handling more than 70% of POL’s imported finished products, efficient port, and terminal operations are critical to the country’s energy security.
Efforts to rationalize berthing schedules, and vessel performance and maximize the use of interstate pipelines will lead to long-term sustainable, efficient, and cost-effective supply of oil to the end consumer.
