The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has opened the new Marina South Wharves (MSW), constructed to complement the existing lighter terminal at Penjuru and to lower operating costs for lighter operators serving ships in the Eastern anchorages.
MPA developed the MSW at a cost of SGD16 million and appointed Jurong Port Pte Ltd, also the operator of the Penjuru Terminal, to operate the newly opened wharf.
MSW is a purpose-built wharf comprising a 100-meter wharf structure and a single-story administration building. It features crane lifting, cargo handling, mooring, and berth facilities to meet the needs of ship suppliers and lighter operators.
“The lighter industry provides a vital service and is an integral part of Maritime Singapore,” said Lam Yi Young, chief executive of MPA, at the official opening of MSW yesterday.
He added, “The lighter facilities serve as a conduit for the delivery of critical ship stores and supplies to vessels in the Port of Singapore. MSW will provide quicker access to Singapore’s Eastern anchorages and this will allow for cost savings while boosting service levels.”
Lighter terminals are used by lighter operators to ferry goods to ships in the anchorages. Lighter operations involve the use of small lighter craft to deliver a wide range of goods to ships, including household items, edibles, medicines, ropes, lubricants, ship machinery, and spare parts.
Photo: ashkyd
