LMS to Operate the First Double Hull Bunker Barge in Sri Lanka

Lanka Marine Services (Pvt) Ltd (LMS) today announced it has expanded its fleet of bunker barges by purchasing its latest bunker barge MT Lanka Marine Mahaweli, which arrived in Sri Lanka in May 2017.

TThe 2927dwt MT. Lanka Marine Mahaweli, which LMS says it will be the first double hull barge to operate in the country, has a total capacity of 2600 MT and will carry IFO 380cSt, IFO 180cSt, and MGO in her bunker delivery tanks.

“In a further boost to efficiency, the Lanka Marine Mahaweli is capable of delivering bunkers at a rate of over 700MT per hour, making her the most efficient bunker barge to operate in Sri Lankan territorial waters,” LMS told Ship & Bunker in an emailed statement.

“The acquisition of its biggest barge yet by LMS is in keeping with the Company’s growth plans to meet the ever-increasing demand for marine fuel in Sri Lanka and to also cater to the resultant larger parcel sizes.

“The addition of Lanka Marine Mahaweli will enhance Customer service levels by uplifting the delivery infrastructure of the company and will add more flexibility and productivity in operations by revolutionising the standard of operational efficiency locally, to bring them in line with international standards.”

Today’s announcement is the second notable development for the supplier in as many months, and follows the launch last month of several digital bunkering initiatives aimed at improving the customer experience when transacting with LMS.

“As the leader in the Sri Lankan bunker market LMS continuously endeavours to improve its service levels and standards through investment and innovation, in order to uplift the bunker industry in Sri Lanka,” the company concluded.

LMS, the bunkering unit of the Transportation Group of John Keells Holdings PLC (JKH), says it caters to bunkers and lubricant supplies on behalf of most global suppliers at all the key bunkering Ports in Sri Lanka.