Pakistan has successfully resumed night navigation for vessels carrying fully loaded petroleum products after a 28-year hiatus, marking a significant development in the nation’s handling of oil imports.
The oil vessel MT. Ardmore, which was recently berthed at the Fauji Oil Terminal and Distribution Company (FOTCO) by Port Qasim Authority (PQA) in accordance with night navigation protocols, was loaded with imported motor gasoline.
The company described the beginning of fully operational night navigation as a significant development in Pakistan’s handling of oil imports in a press release. The capacity of the port and FOTCO to handle oil vessels is anticipated to increase by up to 30% as a result of this development.
As a result, the handling capacity will rise to 18 vessels per month, clearing up port congestion and sparing importers from high demurrage fees throughout the busiest times of the year.
The statement emphasized the nation’s growing reliance on imports and the rising demand for petroleum products, underscoring the necessity of port infrastructure across the board operating effectively.
The effective operations of the port and terminal are essential for ensuring the nation’s energy security because FOTCO and PQA are in charge of managing over 70% of imported finished petroleum.
Rationalizing berthing plans, improving vessel performance, and maximizing cross-country pipeline utilization are all being done in an effort to achieve longer-term sustainability, efficiency, and cost-effective petroleum supply to end users. These actions will help create a more efficient and dependable petroleum supply chain in Pakistan.
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