According to SLPA chairman Keith Bernard, the acquisition of these cranes, combined with the three already received earlier this year, will enable the ECT to redeploy three cranes to the Jaya Container Terminal, thus enhancing its operational capacity.

The SLPA is financing the procurement of these cranes.

Bernard emphasised that amid the ongoing Red Sea crisis, which has led to heightened cargo volumes, the new equipment will facilitate quicker cargo clearance, ensuring smoother port operations.

Last year witnessed significant growth for SLPA, handling 1,965,128 TEUs compared to 1,925,895 TEUs in 2022, reflecting a 2 per cent increase.

Meanwhile, the Port of Colombo (POC) managed 6,951,003 TEUs, marking a 1.17 per cent growth from the previous year.

In a bid to further modernise its infrastructure, SLPA is set to receive eight more STS gantry cranes and 40 ARMG cranes from China, with an investment of $282 million from its coffers.

Bernard outlined plans to solicit Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the development of Galle Harbour into a tourism port, alongside proposals for the enhancement of Kankesanturai Port for both passenger and cargo operations.

Awaiting a $61 million credit facility from India, SLPA aims to bolster KKS Port’s infrastructure, signalling its commitment to expanding and upgrading Sri Lanka's maritime capabilities.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DR)