Dredging operation at HIP to restore harbour depth

The Hambantota International Port (HIP) began maintenance dredging this month in order to restore the harbour’s original depth. The operation undertaken by HIP to ensure the continued safe navigation of vessels began early February and is expected to be completed in approximately two months.

This project will return the harbor to its declared specifications by restoring its navigational channel and harbour basin. Harbours typically require regular maintenance dredging to counteract the gradual build-up of silt.

“HIP has a declared depth of 17 meters below sea level in the Navigation Channel.  However, silt deposition has reduced these depths in certain locations over time. Routine maintenance dredging is essential to preserve operational efficiency and safety standards, hence the need for dredging and restoring our declared depths.  This will ensure that we continue to accommodate large vessels safely and efficiently,” says Capt. Ravi Jayawickreme, CEO of Hambantota International Port Services (HIPS). The port embarked on the dredging operation following a comprehensive bathymetric survey to accurately map current silt levels throughout the harbor.

Datta Gunasekara, Chief Specialist Engineering of HIPG says, “The bathymetric survey carried out with the Sri Lanka Navy ‘s Hydrographic Service last year identified the silted areas in isolated patches. The maintenance dredging operation was then planned with necessary statutory approvals, further tests on water and sediment quality and precautionary measures to ensure safe navigation, emergency preparedness and environmental protection.”

“The dredging contractor uses a state-of-the-art grab dredger to collect the silt and load it onto hopper barges. Although the port’s daily operations in general will be two dredging cycles, we will adjust the schedule as and when necessary to accommodate incoming vessels and ensure their safe passage,” he adds.

Once the dredging work is complete, another bathymetric survey will be conducted to verify that the harbor’s declared depths are successfully restored.

 Source:Daily News