The Patimban Port, located in West Java, is one of the National Strategic Projects (PSN). With a total investment value of IDR 40 trillion, the entire development of the port is targeted to be completed by 2029.
Dian Wahdiana, the Head of the Class II Port Authority Office of Patimban, stated that the overall development of Pelabuhan Patimban is on track to meet the 2029 target.
According to the official website of the Committee for the Acceleration of Priority Infrastructure Provision, the total investment value for the construction of Patimban port is IDR 43.2 trillion.
The funding scheme involves cooperation between the government and private entities, with the Ministry of Transportation being responsible for the project.
The development of Patimban port includes a container terminal with an estimated capacity of 7.5 million TEUs. The estimated capacity had taken into account the potential demand growth in the eastern region of West Java.
Alternative to Tanjung Priok
The construction of the Patimban port is part of the government’s strategy to reduce capacity overload at Tanjung Priok Port. Additionally, the development of Patimban port is expected to stimulate economic development in Subang and its surrounding areas.
Dian mentioned that although the infrastructure is still being improved, Patimban port has already begun operations.
The current progress involves the expansion of the car terminal and construction of additional container berths. The construction of Sekar Terminal, which will serve as car and container terminals, will cover a total area of 60 hectares.
Integration with Bekasi-Karawang-Purwakarta industrial zone
Dian also explained that the Patimban port project would help alleviate traffic congestion in Jakarta. The port will also be integrated with the planned Bekasi-Karawang-Purwakarta Integrated Industrial Economic Zone (Bekapur).
As a result, many industries will be directed to open within the Bekapur industrial area.
Furthermore, Patimban port is expected to become an international port. Wahyu Utomo, Deputy for Coordination of Infrastructure Acceleration and Regional Development at the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs, hoped that once fully operational, the port would become a major economic hub, benefiting both the local region and the nation.
Concern over Patimban port location
Despite the positive impacts that will be brought by the Patimban port, concerns had previously been raised in relation to the location of the port.
The Eretan Bay, where Patimban port is located, has been determined as mandatory pilot waters. This means that ship coming in and out of the port must use pilot services.
Consequently, Patimban port operator must be able to provide adequate pilot services that can cater to various shipping company needs.
Moreover, the presence of offshore oilrig and underwater pipeline off the coast of Patimban port means that ships must practice constant awareness when maneuvering within the port’s area.
