LANGKAWI: The much-needed dredging operations at the Kuala Perlis Ferry Terminal are set to commence soon, aiming to restore smooth ferry services on the Langkawi-Kuala Perlis route.
Addressing Shallow Waters: The Need for Dredging
The dredging project comes in response to increasing disruptions caused by shallow waters in the ferry terminal area. Over time, sedimentation from surrounding regions has led to significant mud deposits accumulating in the shipping channel and the basin near the jetty, making navigation difficult for ferries.
The Impact of Sedimentation on Ferry Operations
Abd Majid Rais, Director of the Northern Region Marine Department, highlighted the challenges posed by these mud deposits. “We’ve received multiple complaints regarding the shallowness of the ferry channel and surrounding areas at the Kuala Perlis terminal,” he said. “This issue has reoccurred more than a year after the last dredging was completed.”
Upcoming Dredging Project: Details and Timeline
To address these concerns, a new dredging project has been approved and awarded to a contractor through an open tender process. The letter of acceptance was signed on July 15, with the project set to run from August 1, 2024, to May 31, 2025.
“This 10-month contract will ensure the Langkawi-Kuala Perlis ferry route is no longer disrupted by shallow waters,” Abd Majid added.
Preventing Ferry Disruptions: Immediate Actions Taken
In the interim, Konsortium Ferry Line Ventures Sdn Bhd (Ferry Line) has adjusted 52 ferry trips this month to prevent vessels from becoming stuck on sandbanks. According to Ferry Line operations manager, Norhafiz Abdul Wahid, these amendments are necessary to ensure safe and reliable ferry services until the dredging project is completed.
Ensuring Long-Term Navigation Efficiency
The dredging project is expected to significantly improve the depth of the ferry channel and surrounding areas, ensuring that ferry services can operate smoothly without the risk of disruptions caused by shallow waters. This initiative is a critical step towards maintaining efficient maritime operations between Langkawi and Kuala Perlis.
By addressing the sedimentation issue with this upcoming dredging work, the Kuala Perlis Ferry Terminal will be better equipped to handle ferry traffic, enhancing the overall reliability of this important transportation route.