After a gap of 28 years, Pakistan has successfully resumed night navigation for fully-laden petroleum products vessels, marking a significant milestone in the country’s oil import handling operations.
The oil vessel MT. Ardmore, loaded with imported Motor Gasoline, recently berthed at the Fauji Oil Terminal and Distribution Company (FOTCO) by Port Qasim Authority (PQA) under night navigation protocols.
In a press statement, the company highlighted the commencement of fully operational night navigation as a major breakthrough in oil import handling operations in Pakistan. This development is expected to enhance the port and FOTCO’s capacity to handle petroleum vessels by up to 30%.
Consequently, the handling capacity will increase to 18 vessels per month, resolving port congestion issues and saving importers from heavy demurrages during peak seasons.
The statement emphasized the growing demand for petroleum products and the country’s increasing reliance on imports, underscoring the need for efficient functioning of port infrastructure nationwide.
With FOTCO and PQA managing over 70% of imported finished petroleum, the efficient operations of the port and terminal are crucial for ensuring the country’s energy security.
To achieve longer-term sustainability, efficiency, and cost-effective supply of petroleum to end consumers, efforts are being made to rationalize berthing plans, optimize vessel performance, and maximize cross-country pipeline utilization. These measures will contribute to a more streamlined and reliable supply chain for petroleum products in Pakistan.
