Khalifa Bin Salman Port ‘moving full steam ahead’

TDT | Manama

The Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications (MTT) confirmed that Khalifa Bin Salman Port (KBSP) which handles 99.5 per cent of consumer goods to Bahrain continues to operate at its full capacity, to support the national economy. 

The Ministry, in collaboration with the port operator APM Terminals Bahrain, is working actively to maintain critical operations at KBSP by implementing strict health and safety measures to limit the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) infection.

Other measures include regular monitoring of Bahrain’s and World Health Organisation’s (WHO) circulars and guidelines as well as ensuring regular screening of all incoming vessels with MTT.

Incoming vessels are required to declare at least 10 of their last port of calls and previous visits to any of the infected countries, 72 hours before their arrival at KBSP.

The port, as per a circular issued by MTT on 26 February 2020, temporarily suspended crew disembarkation from ships and private jetties and at KBSP until further notice.

Besides, the port, in collaboration with local businesses, is ensuring fast and efficient delivery of all import containers and shipments, including food items and essential supplies to help Bahrain maintain sufficient food stock for the next six months.

Cruise vessels banned, However, no cruise vessels will be allowed to enter the port until further notices. An MTT circular on 26 February 2020 suspended cruise vessels making the port of calls in Bahrain for two weeks, which was further extended on 8 March 2020.

Temperature screening APM Terminals Bahrain has also initiated temperature screenings of all employees and customers at various point of entries at the terminal’ offices including customer services building, main gate, staff gate, and temporary gate pass office.

This also includes social distancing measures in addition to the sterilization of port shuttle buses and bus waiting stations. Control measures include sanitising all public areas and equipment and providing all medical supplies including portable hand sanitizer, gloves, surgical masks, etc.

Work from home The port has also implemented working from the home policy as well as holding meetings and workshops remotely using electronic applications.

Adopted a strict policy of separation between each shift of critical operators to protect essential resources and limit the impact of any potential infection.

Commenting on the measures, Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed, Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications said, “We are working with our partners at APMT to ensure the business continuity of operations in Khalifa Bin Salman Port as it is a vital and important facility as we strive to minimize any negative impact on the supply chain and local trade to support the Kingdom of Bahrain’s national economy.”

“Our team at the Ports and Maritime Affairs is on hand to help with any customer issues as needed, and we thank all our customers for their cooperation at this time as we work to keep everyone safe.”

On this note, Susan Hunter, CEO/Managing Director of APM Terminals Bahrain, said, “We are moving full steam ahead and continue to invest in control measures and contingency plans with operational alternatives, should the needs arise.” For updates or containers movements or general enquiries, customers can call 38885831 or email: combah@apmterminals.com.