Padmesh Prabhune –
Cochin Port Authority has extended the waiver of port charges for a further period of three years effective April 1, 2024 for ships calling at outer anchorage of the port for bunkering services. This would mean the waiver of port charges would be valid upto March 2027.
Officials at the Cochin Port Authority (CPA) confirmed that the order issued last week by the Deputy Conservator has been implemented and shall remain in force for the period.
The maritime services carried out at the outer anchorage of the Cochin port include crew change, supply of fuel and drinking water, ship stores, ship repairs, etc.
Professionals in the maritime industry have equally welcomed the move adding that the positive stand taken by the port management was part of the joint initiative taken up by Kerala Steamer Agents Association and public sector oil companies operating in and around Kochi.
“The waiver will definitely encourage more and more ships to utilize port services here and further help CPA to have better growth opportunities,” said an official.
Describing the decision as a pro-active trade initiative, Binu K.S, President of the Kerala Steamer Agents Association said, “This (waiver) will have a long term benefit to vessel owners and operators who are looking for a better place to procure quality ship supplies. This would also help vessel owners/charterers and operators to do advance planning of their vessel calls to Kochi.”
Also with international ship-repair facility coming up at the Cochin Shipyard Limited, Kochi would soon emerge as the most preferred location for quality fuels, ship repair, crew change, engine and deck stores, provisions and freshwater intake.
Foreign European Vessels, following the European-Asian sea route now can plan having an option of Cochin enroute before bunkering at Colombo, making it a win-win situation for businesses.
Marex Media