Jamalco reopens Rocky Point Port following repairs to damage from Hurricane Beryl

Jamalco says its Rocky Point Port in Clarendon has resumed activities, with a ship already loaded with over 30,000 tons of alumina, two months after operations came to a grinding halt as a result of Hurricane Beryl.

The storm reportedly damaged the port's infrastructure, rendering the alumina conveyor system inoperable and preventing ship loading.

Jamalco says the restoration project, which cost approximately US$10 million, has significant implications and marks a major milestone in the company's efforts to restore full functionality.

"The restart of alumina shipping from the port is a vital component of our business, and we are thrilled to be back online ahead of schedule. This means we can now meet our commitments to customers, ensure a stable supply chain, and drive growth for our company," said managing director, Marvin Jackson.

He said the swift recovery is a significant achievement and must be attributed to the Herculean effort of the company's employees and the local and international contractors. 

"We assembled a talented team, and I am proud they completed the work ahead of schedule and incident-free."

Civil Engineer and Project Manager, Melanie Thwaites said “The restored dock and supporting structure are now stronger and bigger, with 36-foot-wide piles installed to support the trestle system and a reinstated 2000-foot conveyor belt.” 

Phase two of the repairs will focus on upgrading the conveyor belt to a higher elevation to protect it from future hurricane-generated waves.

During the period that the port was out of service, Jamalco trucked alumina to a nearby port for shipment. This temporary solution enabled the company to partially achieve its commitments.

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