Ocean Asia Logistics was appointed as the sole logistics service provider for the Mattala Airport runway resurfacing project, a critical infrastructure initiative aimed at restoring and upgrading the secondary international airport to operational readiness. The project involved the importation, clearance, transportation, and site delivery of high-grade runway paint, bituminous materials, and specialized airport maintenance equipment. Given the strategic importance of Mattala Airport to regional connectivity and aviation emergency preparedness, the Ministry of Ports and Aviation mandated strict timelines and zero tolerance for delays. Ocean Asia Logistics responded with a fully integrated project cargo handling solution tailored to the unique demands of airport infrastructure development.
The operation commenced at the Colombo port, where multiple consignments of dangerous goods-classified runway paint and heavy machinery arrived over a four-week period. Our customs brokerage division worked in close coordination with Sri Lanka Customs, the Central Environmental Authority, and the Airport Authority to secure all necessary DG import permits, port health clearances, and project-specific duty waivers. Each shipment was pre-cleared through our digital customs interface, allowing for immediate examination and release upon vessel berthing. Our licensed DG handling team supervised the unstuffing and staging of all flammable materials within designated hazardous cargo zones, employing explosion-proof equipment and static discharge protocols throughout.
Transportation from Colombo to Mattara presented significant logistical challenges due to the distance, road conditions, and the sensitive nature of the cargo. Ocean Asia Logistics deployed a dedicated convoy of DG-compliant trucks equipped with real-time GPS tracking, spill response kits, and fire suppression systems. Route planning was conducted in consultation with police traffic authorities to avoid peak hours, narrow urban corridors, and rough terrain segments. Each vehicle was fitted with weather-protective covers and load-securing mechanisms to prevent cargo shift during transit. The convoy operated under a centralized command system, with our control room monitoring progress and communicating with drivers at fifteen-minute intervals.
Upon arrival at Mattala Airport, our site logistics team coordinated with the engineering contractor to schedule unloading operations that aligned with runway availability and construction sequencing. The runway paint drums were systematically offloaded using non-sparking forklifts and transferred to a secured, ventilated storage compound. Heavy equipment was craned off flatbed trailers and positioned adjacent to the work site for immediate deployment. Our team remained on-site throughout the project duration to manage just-in-time deliveries of consumables and handle the return logistics of empty drums and packaging waste. All unloading and handover procedures were documented and certified by the airport project management unit.
The Mattala Runway Logistics Project was completed ahead of schedule, with zero cargo damage, zero regulatory infractions, and zero safety incidents. Ocean Asia Logistics successfully navigated the complexities of DG importation, long-haul transportation, and precision site delivery in support of a nationally significant aviation infrastructure asset. This project further strengthens our portfolio of high-compliance logistics solutions for airport development, defence installations, and large-scale government infrastructure programs across Sri Lanka.
