The Peruvian Association of Maritime Agents (Apam) of Peru warned that there is a risk of generating pollution in the bay of Callao, due to a problem of interpretation regarding the collection of waste from ships in the anchorage areas.
In a statement, the organization explained that “we have been alerted by our members with great concern that, due to a lack of clarity in the normative interpretation between the National Port Authority (APN) and the General Directorate of Captains and Coast Guards (Dicapi), there have been obstacles to the collection of oily waste and garbage from ships in the port of Callao since August 2023.”
According to Apam, the situation, “in addition to harming the operations of numerous merchant ships, projects a negative image of Peru internationally and, more seriously, generates a risk of pollution to the bay of Callao and the Peruvian sea.”
“To the understanding of our associates, the problem originates from the interpretation that the APN itself makes of the National Port System Law, specifically regarding the collection of waste in anchorage areas, which are not considered ‘port areas’ according to the regulations, but which according to the APN constitutes a ‘basic port service of waste collection’,” stated the document.
The association stated that “this impasse directly impacts a large number of ships, which, unable to deliver their waste to shore as established by the Marpol Convention, face the dilemma of delaying their operations or, in the worst case, performing discharges using unauthorized means; an action that damages the reputation of Callao as a reliable port and of Peru as a country that fulfills its international obligations.”
Given this scenario, Apam pointed out that “the solution to this regulatory impasse involves an inter-institutional agreement that clarifies the competences and immediately authorizes the operations of collecting waste from ships in anchorage areas and its removal to shore through facilities authorized by Dicapi.”
Furthermore, it reiterated that “inaction can generate the risk of an environmental catastrophe and damage to Peru’s image as a responsible maritime actor, consequences we cannot afford. Callao, as the main port of the country, must lead by example, guaranteeing efficient and sustainable operations, in full compliance with national and international legislation.”
“Apam echoes this situation that our members are going through and makes itself available to both authorities to serve as a means to reach a solution for the benefit of all,” emphasized the organization.
