Port Authority Chairman (SLPA) Dr. Priyath Wicrama said a person has to go to 13 various places within the Port before clearing cargo. He said this will not happen at the new harbour in Hambantota.

“We will introduce an online payment system where only the truck driver will be needed to clear any cargo,” he said.

This could be even done from Jaffna, he added.

The Chairman said the new 14 storied administrative building that is being built at the Magampura harbour will provide all maritime related services under one roof and it is a one stop shop. Customs, Immigration, banks, freight forwarders and other maritime related services will be housed in this.”

Dr. Wickrama said they are now planning to introduce this system to the Colombo Port as well.