Asia/Pacific News
GAC Launches Bunkering Branch in Hambantota
Ship agency and related services firm GAC Sri Lanka said in a news release today it has opened a new bunkering branch in the port of Hambantota.
"GAC is one of the first companies to provide agency and bunker services at Hambantota from our offices in Colombo, Galle and Trincomalee," said Director/Chief Executive Officer Preethilal Fernando.
"Operations are supported by GAC's own fleet of vehicles, including environmentally-friendly hybrid cars, as well as a fleet of steel hulled, fully air-conditioned launches, which operates round-the-clock to manage crew changes, deliver spares, provisions and mail, and to respond to emergency situations," the company said.
According to the press release, the new office means GAC Sri Lanka now operates from all Sri Lankan ports.
The company says it has also moved into new, bigger premises at Galle and Trincomalee "to better cater to the increased demand" of its services.
Preethilal said the location of Galle Port offers an excellent base for offshore ship supply services, demand for which is set to grow as the government opens up more areas for oil and gas exploration.
"The call for more LPG imports and exports of clean products in the Indian Subcontinent has also resulted in a rise in the demand for ship-to-ship transfer services," he added.
GAC also noted an increase in the movement of security personnel at Galle due to growing concerns about sea crime in the Indian Ocean.
