MPA permits night operations for container barges at Pasir Panjang Terminal

Barge operations will now be allowed from 7:00 pm to 6:30 am.

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has announced the approval of night movement of line-towed container barges at Pasir Panjang Terminal (PPT). 

This new measure, effective immediately, allows for barge operations from 7:00 pm to 6:30 am.

The Port of Singapore has experienced a 6.1% increase in container volumes over the first seven months of 2024, handling a total of 23.82 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs). This uptick in activity has been accompanied by a reduction in average wait times for container berths, now less than one day as of July 2024. These enhancements are attributed to recent improvements including the commissioning of new berths at Tuas Port, reactivation of Keppel Terminal facilities, and increased manpower and scheduling coordination by MPA and PSA Singapore.

The recent four-month trial, conducted with six barge operators, demonstrated successful implementation of nighttime operations at PPT, a significant shift from the previous restriction to Brani and Keppel Terminals. 

The initiative aims to optimise port resources, reduce business costs, and improve turnaround times by utilising nighttime hours for container transportation. Each line-towed barge can carry an average of 300 TEUs, potentially easing congestion and enhancing regional connectivity.

To ensure safety during these nighttime operations, MPA will enforce additional measures including compulsory pilotage, restrictions on towing line lengths, and close monitoring via the vessel traffic management system. All nighttime movements will require prior approval from MPA.

Barge operators have been briefed on the new safety protocols and approval process. The initiative is set to enhance port efficiency and connectivity with neighboring ports, marking a significant advancement in Singapore's port operations.