New MV Karkar to boost travel and cargo movement in Vanimo

The arrival of the new MV Karkar at Vanimo Wharf is being welcomed as a potential boost to passenger travel and the movement of cargo in West Sepik, particularly at this time when businesses in Vanimo are struggling to maintain supplies.

Owned by Lutheran Shipping Services and operated under IROK Shipping Services, the modern vessel is offering another option for the people and businesses that depend on sea transport to move passengers, goods, and supplies along the coast.

For businesses in Vanimo, reliable shipping is critical. Store owners and traders depend on ships to bring in food, building materials, trade goods, and other essential supplies.

Business houses also move goods from the Batas Trade Centre to markets and communities in Wewak, Madang and Lae.

Vanimo Chamber of Commerce Chairman, Gerald Gubon, says the limited number of shipping services calling in at Vanimo has already affected the supply of goods in local shops.

“MV Karkar will help our business houses here greatly. Because we have only one container ship that comes to Vanimo.

In the last three months, we have only received cargoes once. That is why our shops are running low on supplies, the shelves in the shops are almost empty,” Gubon said.

The new ship will provide businesses with another way to move cargo, including smaller consignments, small vehicles, and other bulky goods.

IROK Services Chief Executive Officer Michael Chan Jnr says MV Karkar is expected to travel to Vanimo once a month, though the ship runs could increase based on customer demand.

He says small businesses will also be able to communicate directly with IROK representatives to arrange their cargo.

“Small businesses can now communicate directly with our officers on the ground. Once they communicate, we can have their cargoes shipped out when the vessels come into port,” Chan said.

For ordinary passengers, the ship has a more modern travel option. At about 40 metres long and capable of carrying up to 317 passengers, MV Karkar is designed to transport both people and cargo, with modern passenger facilities and safety systems that will provide a comfortable journey.