The Hambantota International Port (HIP) began maintenance dredging this month in order to restore the harbour’s original depth. The operation, undertaken by HIP to ensure the continued safe navigation of vessels, began early February and is expected to be completed in approximately two months. This project will return the harbour to its declared specifications by restoring its navigational channel and harbour basin.

Harbours typically require regular maintenance dredging to counteract the gradual build-up of silt.  “HIP has a declared depth of 17 meters below sea level in the Navigation Channel.  However, silt deposition has reduced these depths in certain locations over time. Routine maintenance dredging is essential to preserve operational efficiency and safety standards, hence the need for dredging and restoring our declared depths.  This will ensure that we continue to accommodate large vessels safely and efficiently,” says Capt. Ravi Jayawickreme, CEO of Hambantota International Port Services (HIPS).

The port embarked on the dredging operation following a comprehensive bathymetric survey to accurately map current silt levels throughout the harbour. This survey enabled the project team to identify precise areas that required dredging. Once the survey was complete, a tender process was called for, and the most suitable contractor was assigned to execute the specialised work.

Datta Gunasekara, Chief Specialist Engineering of HIPG says, “The bathymetric survey carried out with the Sri Lanka Navy‘s Hydrogaphy Service last year identified the silted areas in isolated patches. The maintenance dredging operation was then planned with necessary statutory approvals, further tests on water and sediment quality and precautionary measures to ensure safe navigation, emergency preparedness and environmental protection. All necessary environmental permits were secured from CC&CRM, CEA and MEPA for both dredging and sea dumping at a location 11 nautical miles away from the shoreline. The process is continuously monitored by the Port Control unit of HIP to ensure safety and meet statutory requirements. The dumping activity which is being carried out without any interference with fishing activity in the neighbouring area, is a continuous operation with intermittent stoppages to allow safe ship navigation.”

The Chief Specialist says, while the silt accumulation is considered to be within normal limits in comparison with other coastal locations in the country, HIP has made it a top priority to restore the port’s declared depths in the shortest possible time.

“The dredging contractor uses a state-of-the-art grab dredger to collect the silt and load it onto hopper barges. Although the port’s daily operations in general will be two dredging cycles, we will adjust the schedule as and when necessary to accommodate incoming vessels and ensure their safe passage,” he adds.

For HIP, safeguarding the environment throughout the dredging operation is a top priority. The port has conducted preliminary tests confirming that the dredged material is composed primarily of sand and mud with no harmful substances.

Once the dredging work is complete, another bathymetric survey will be conducted to verify that the harbour’s declared depths are successfully restored. This maintenance operation reinforces HIP’s commitment to safe maritime operations and environmental stewardship, ensuring that the port continues to serve as a key maritime gateway in the region.

Hambantota International Port, completed in 2010–2011, is a pivotal maritime gateway designed to facilitate safe and efficient vessel operations. The port is dedicated to maintaining high standards of operational safety, environmental protection, and sustainable maritime development.