POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS FOR MARINE ECOSYSTEM PROTECTION IN SAUD PORTS A PROBABILISTIC MODEL FOR ESTIMATING THE WAITING TIME OF CONTAINER SHIP TURNAROUND TIMES
Abstract
Vessel turnover time (VTT) is a critical performance indicator for international shipping companies, influencing the choice of transshipment hub ports. This study explores the factors affecting VTT using stochastic models, revealing key parameters controlled by terminal operators. VTT includes sub-scales such as berth waiting time, maneuvering time, dock/departure time, idle time, and container handling time. The research emphasizes the correlation between port size and performance improvement, with larger ports outperforming smaller ones. Enhancements in liner connectivity, private sector engagement, corruption mitigation in the government sector, and intermodal connectivity are identified as factors that enhance port efficiency in emerging regions.
Previous studies have proposed marine ecosystem protection strategies for Saudi ports, emphasizing the need for accurate estimation of container ship waiting times. The proposed probabilistic model for estimating VTT waiting times considers vessel type, weather, port congestion, and local factors, offering high accuracy. Additionally, discrete-event simulation models are explored for evaluating environmental management systems in Saudi ports, demonstrating their potential to reduce waiting times and environmental impacts.
The study presents a comprehensive methodology and numerical representation for estimating VTT waiting times, introducing a probabilistic model using shifted exponential distribution to simulate lifetime data. It highlights the importance of managing container terminal operations to reduce vessel waiting times, benefiting marine ecosystems. A deterministic optimization model is proposed, considering shipping deadlines and port congestion, which can significantly enhance shipping company revenues and customer satisfaction while reducing CO2 emissions associated with prolonged ship anchorage.
