350 safe operations in Bangladesh: a milestone built on readiness
Operating offshore in the Bay of Bengal requires preparation for conditions that can change quickly: strong currents, swells, monsoon weather, fishing activity and the practical challenges of maintaining vessels far from shore.
Against that backdrop, Svitzer in Bangladesh has completed 350 safe ship-to-ship operations supporting Excelerate Energy at the Moheshkhali LNG terminal.
Operating offshore in the Bay of Bengal requires preparation for conditions that can change quickly: strong currents, swells, monsoon weather, fishing activity and the practical challenges of maintaining vessels far from shore.
The milestone reflects consistent work over many years. Each operation depends on prepared vessels, capable crews, close coordination with the terminal and a steady focus on safety.
The operation also carries a wider responsibility. The terminal is an important part of Bangladesh’s energy infrastructure, and reliable offshore support helps maintain the security of supply to the country.
“It is amazing that we have come so far in this operation,” says Sarwar Chowdhury, Country Manager, Svitzer Bangladesh. “There has been a lot of learning during this period. First, I want to thank our crew, who deliver everything while working on the front line. The credit goes to them.”
Readiness is built into the daily operation. Engines, generators, deck equipment and other systems must be maintained on time. Shore-based colleagues, including the fleet operations manager and technical superintendent, regularly visit the vessels and support the crews with technical guidance.
The work is not without its challenges. Emergency maintenance offshore can require close coordination with the client, technical teams travelling to the vessels, or a vessel being brought to port. Spare parts may need to be imported, with customs clearance adding another layer of planning.
“We have a very good relationship with our customer, Excelerate Energy,” Sarwar says. “We always discuss the challenges that we have and how we can minimise the exposure.”
Fishing activity is another operational reality. Nets can become entangled with propellers or thrusters, creating technical risks and requiring diving, cleaning and, in some cases, urgent maintenance. Crews also need to be continuously aware and vigilant of fishing boats in the terminal area as they ply their local trade.
The 350-operation milestone is a reflection of colleagues, our customer and the community coming together. The people who prepare, operate, maintain and support the service every day, on board, ashore and across the wider Svitzer organisation in support of our customers and to the benefit of the local community.
