A Contemporary Analysis for COVID-19 Pandemic Related Port Congestion in Gemlik Region of Türkiye

Ports are vital global economic hubs that are essential for international trade. The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has posed a significant challenge to ports worldwide, leading to congestion issues. Ships have faced extended waiting times because of heightened health protocols, resulting in increased costs and delayed deliveries. This study utilizes the ARENA simulation tool to analyze the pandemic’s adverse impact on ship port times at a selected port. Weekly ship traffic data and port COVID-19 statistics from 2020 were collected. In 2020, prolonged ship operations and health protocol paperwork contributed to longer ship waiting times in queue. Notably, these delays occurred despite consistent labor and working hour management at the selected port. Average wait times surged from 0.157 to 17.33 min, while maximum waits skyrocketed from 0.285 to 74.977 h. This study underscores the importance of addressing pandemic-induced challenges in port operations.