MCC Transport, the intra-Asia container carrier of A.P. Moller-Maersk Group, released a series of statements on 27 October 2011 concerning the massive flooding in Thailand that continues to paralyze operations in many parts of the country. Among the updates:
1. Due to the expected flow of water into inner Bangkok, Bangkok Port (PAT) has announced that all operations at the terminal have stopped from October 27, 2011 until further notice. While Lat Krabang is still operating normally, MCC advises customers to divert their cargo to Laem Chabang to avoid getting caught in floods.
2. The Thai government has announced October 27 to 31 as a public holiday for government workers in risky areas. But banks and private companies will stay open for business. “Our terminals are also operating as normal but import customers will have to arrange OT with customs in order to proceed for their import clearance,” MCC said.
3. MCC Transport Thailand’s office will be closed from 2 p.m. on October 27 and on October 28. Urgent matters including bill of ladings and delivery orders should be settled before 2 p.m. Although its hotlines will still be operating, MCC requests customers to do transactions via its e-channels. Cash payments may be done through the company’s bank.
4. MCC has laid out a contingency plan should the flooding in Thailand worsen. “If the water spreads further, our Lat Krabang ICD will be temporarily closed for safety reasons—however, our Laem Chabang port will continue to operate as usual,” it said.
