The Hambantota International Port Group (HIPG) has announced a significant investment of $41 million in crane technology, set to be fully operational by January 2025.
This enhancement includes the installation of four Quay Cranes (QC) and 13 Rubber-Tyred Gantry (RTG) cranes at the Hambantota International Port (HIP), expanding the port’s capabilities to a handling capacity of 1 million TEUs.
The four Quay Cranes which arrived on the MV De Qiang 66 on 30 November feature a Twinlift 65 metre outreach, with impressive load ratings of 50 tonnes for single handling, 65 tonnes for tandem lifting, and 75 tonnes on the underhook beam.
They provide a lifting height of 42 metres above rail and 20 metres below rail.
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The RTGs which arrived on the same date on vessel FENG HAI DA, have a span of 23.47 metres and a base distance of 6.9 metres, each offering a single handling capacity of 41 tonnes and a lifting height of 01-over-05.
The modern QC and RTG cranes built to meet green port initiatives have advanced automation systems and anti-collision technology, ensuring high efficiency and safety during operations.
The new equipment is a significant addition to the two QCs and three RTGs, four Reach Stackers, and three Empty Stackers HIP currently operate. The new cranes are expected to take approximately two months for commissioning.
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The upgraded facilities are expected to not only bolster operations within the port’s industrial zone but also to stimulate industry growth in the southern hinterland, creating new opportunities for local entrepreneurs.
“Our investment in these new cranes will considerably enhance HIP’s container handling capabilities, positioning us as a fully-fledged multipurpose port for Sri Lanka,” said Wilson Qu, CEO of HIPG.
“This capacity building is crucial for our transhipment operations and will attract potential investors looking to establish manufacturing plants in our industrial zone. We already have several inquiries in regard to the setting up of manufacturing plants in the port’s industrial zone.
“In addition to that, our marketing team is committed to promoting these developments globally to engage the right partners for our initiatives.”
The CEO added that the establishment of feeder services between Hambantota and Colombo expected soon, will enhance the coastal shipping network.
The addition of HIP’s capacity to the nation’s overall capacity will improve cargo movement efficiency, bringing Sri Lanka closer to its goal of handling 10 million TEUs between 2025 – 2026.
Earlier this week, Adani Gangavaram Port launched two Economic Grab Ship Cranes, marking a significant milestone as the first in India.
