-state-of-the-art wharf to play key role in oil & gas sector

AS Guyana’s maritime infrastructure continues to develop, the Friendship Port Facility at Plantation Friendship, East Bank Demerara, welcomed its first ship recently, effectively commissioning the transformative project.

The company’s director, Dhaneshwar Shiwram, told the Sunday Chronicle that the construction of a state-of-the-art wharf, mooring facility, and the establishment of a protective revetment was recently completed allowing for docking of ships and vessels within the range of 100 to 150 metres.
He explained that the scope of the project is extensive, with a revetment along the western boundary adjacent to the Demerara River, and fencing to secure the northern, southern, and eastern boundaries.

Inside the compound, there is a reinforced concrete road that facilitates a smooth operation.
“The primary purpose of the wharf facility is to cater to the onloading and offloading of cargo, in addition to serving as a docking point for ships during routine maintenance,” Shiwram told this newspaper during an interview.

A noteworthy aspect of the Friendship Port Facility project Shiwram explained is the strategic alignment with the booming oil and gas sector in Guyana.
Recognising the country’s emergence as a key player in oil production, he said that the facility aims to play a crucial role in supporting the increased traffic of vessels associated with this vital industry.

Speaking on the potential impact, Shiwram expressed enthusiasm, stating, “We see this project as a great opportunity to serve the fledgling oil and gas sector and the increased traffic of vessels that service the other sector of our economy. Having a project such as this would be beneficial to the country, its government, and the citizens.”
He said the MV Atlantic will be a key user of the new facility, utilising it for docking, maintenance, and other essential support services. The vessel, with a maximum draft of 5.5 metres when loaded and 3.5 metres when unloaded, boasts a gross tonnage of 2199.

Further, he noted that in the event that there is no viable candidate for leasing the land and its wharf, the Friendship Port Facility will be opened for business from January 2024.
He said two mobile offices will be installed on the site, and the wharf will be actively used to facilitate the replenishment of goods and services for the company-owned vessel and others. The services provided will include small maintenance works carried out by vessel personnel, offering a safe berth for ships, and supplying groceries to vessels.

“The company is also looking forward for government and the Craig Good Success NDC to intervene and assist in solving a security gate issue that is affecting progress within the company parameters that also affects achievement of International Ship and Port Security (ISPS) certification,” he highlighted.
He explained that the Friendship Port Facility is poised to become a crucial hub for maritime activities, offering a range of services that support both routine operations and the burgeoning demands of the oil and gas sector. With an estimated project lifespan exceeding 100 years, this development signifies a long-term commitment to the growth and sustainability of Guyana’s maritime infrastructure.