Jordan Times
Friday, January 16, 2004
King calls for plan in 3 months to tackle Aqaba congestion
AMMAN (Petra) — His Majesty King Abdullah on Thursday called for a plan within three months to solve the congestion problem facing the Aqaba Port's Containers Terminal.In a surprise visit to the facility, King Abdullah said the problem has affected citizens around the Kingdom because it resulted in the increase of prices of some food items.
The King stressed the need to find a swift solution that strikes a balance between the interests of all parties involved in the issue.
King Abdullah said the containers terminal and the entire Aqaba Port Corporation should be restructured and computerised.
Calling for intensified efforts to tackle the congestion problem, caused by increasing trade activities related to the reconstruction process of postwar Iraq, the Monarch said port staff should receive more training to boost their efficiency.
The King toured the facility, talked to workers and pledged to build a housing complex that would include schools, markets and parks.
Corporation Director General Saud Srour said the main Aqaba Port is currently being computerised, but the containers terminal is awaiting a strategic partner for development.