A new rule requiring tankers carrying LPG through the Turkish straits to be accompanied by tugs has been delayed to September 1st, reports Platts, citing an announcement by the Turkish VTS Traffic Control Centre on Friday.
The rule had been due to come into force this week. All LPG tankers passing the Dardanelles and Bosporus will be obliged to use an escort tug. The new rule is expected to affect costs rather than timings, significantly increasing transit fees. Bunkering operations in the area are not expected to be affected by the new rule.