Colombo Dockyard PLC (CDPLC) operates as a premier Shipbuilding and Ship repair facility in the most strategic locations in Indian Ocean. While the shipyard facility in port of Colombo handles the dry-dock repairs, all emergency or planned afloat repairs in all Sri Lankan Ports and anchorages are managed by a specialized and dedicated unit called “Rapid Response Afloat Repair Services”.
The Singapore-flagged container vessel MV Lobivia, recently sustained damages after being struck while navigating the Gulf of Aden. Fortunately, she had managed to avoid casualties during the incident. Although initial plans were to repair the vessel in the gulf region, the vessel opted to unload cargo in South India and proceed to repairs either in the Middle East or Singapore due to its cargo commitments in South Asia. CDPLC was informed about the repair by Marine Plus. Accordingly, a specialized team was dispatched to inspect the vessel to determine the scope of repairs. Following the inspection, the team proposed a repair to the vessel’s owners (Asiatic Lloyd Singapore), operators (CMA-CGM France) and underwriters demonstrating that the repairs could be completed without drydocking, saving significant time. After evaluating the job scope and procedure, the vessel was entrusted to CDPLC for repairs.
One of the main damages was on the hatch covers built by MacGregor. While the vessel’s owners initially suggested replacing the covers, CDPLC leveraged its expertise in fabricating hatch covers – gained through its experience in building a series of 5000 DWT Hybrid Bulk Carriers, six of which have already been delivered. Having not received the detailed drawings from OEM, shipyard proposed repairing the damaged hatch covers, which was a more cost-effective solution. After convincing owners and underwriters, the damaged hatch cover was repaired taking replacements from other hatch covers adjusted in place, tested and qualified for use.
Additionally, the vessel’s accommodation compartments suffered damages. The shipyard, well experienced in shipbuilding and complete construction of accommodation outfitting as well as major modifications/ retrofits in ship repair, removed and disposed all damaged components. The damaged accommodation areas were refurbished with new ceiling panels, wall panels, furniture and painted. Recently CDPLC did a major upgradation of the accommodation on a Singaporean vessel as well.
In addition to the hatch cover repairs and accommodation refurbishments, the shipyard carried out comprehensive work on several other critical areas of the vessel. The cargo crane required extensive attention, including steel renewal for the damaged jib, repairs to cabin doors, and restoration of electrical cabling ensuring the crane’s operational efficiency. Damage to the cargo holds and fuel tanks was also addressed through structural repairs. The provisional crane underwent bearing inspection and refitting. Furthermore, extensive piping repairs and railing repairs were completed to restore the vessel’s operational safety and compliance with maritime standards.
The vessel’s electrical systems were also significantly damaged. The shipyard provided comprehensive support to the owner’s technical team to ensure all electrical repairs were completed.
Despite challenges posed by unprecedented weather, CDPLC successfully completed the repairs within the quoted timeframe. With flexibility, an experienced and capable workforce, the shipyard manages adverse variables keeping the deadline fixed.
The shipyard extends its appreciation to the vessel owners, their representatives, the underwriters and the vessel crew for their unwavering cooperation throughout the repair process. Special thanks also go to Marine Plus for connecting and coordinating with the client.
Being strategically located at the center of Indian Ocean, CDPLC has the most convenient reach from India, Singapore and Middle East. With over fifty years of proven experience in handling any type of vessel and any type of repair, CDPLC assumes reliability, high quality and timely delivery at a reasonable cost with transparency.
This successful project reaffirms Colombo Dockyard’s excellence in managing complex and emergency repairs, providing reliable service to vessels operating in the Indian Ocean.
