By Joseph Momoh, Reporter
Dr. Abdulai Fofanah, General Manager of the Sierra Leone Ports Authority, has voiced serious concerns over ongoing delays caused by clearing agents, calling them the primary obstacle to smooth port operations.
In discussions with stakeholders, Dr. Fofanah highlighted that the tardiness of clearing agents often disrupts the entire logistical chain. To combat these delays, the Ports Authority has reintroduced fines for late container clearances and ramped up enforcement measures to enhance operational efficiency.
Under the new regulations, containers scheduled for examination will be divided into two batches. “Containers not on-site early will be separated and placed outside the port, while timely ones will be processed first,” he explained. Truck owners whose consignees fail to arrive promptly at Customs will incur a fine of Le 5 million, payable before container release, along with proof of payment to ADVAC.
Truck drivers who arrive late or abandon their vehicles will also face penalties. “Drivers are required to be in their trucks by 8:30 a.m., or they will incur a fine of Le 200,” Dr. Fofanah stated.
With the growing volume of cargo arriving at the port, Dr. Fofanah emphasized the urgency of adhering to operational timelines. “We are processing an average of 210 to 230 containers daily due to the increasing flow of goods,” he noted. He also revealed plans to implement 24-hour operations in the vessel section, pending discussions with the Commissioner and port stakeholders.
Commending the Sierra Leone Police for their cooperation, Dr. Fofanah stressed that cleared containers heading to the eastern part of Freetown should not pass through the Central Business District to avoid unnecessary delays. He called on Inspector General of Police Fayia Sellu to enhance traffic controls around sensitive routes like Fourah Bay Road to prevent accidents and further bottlenecks.
“To succeed, consignees must arrive early,” he concluded, underscoring the importance of collective compliance for efficient port operations.
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