A new development programme at Basra Gateway Terminal (BGT) is improving the ability of the Port of Umm Qasr, Iraq, to service larger container vessels.
At the end of August, BGT welcomed the largest vessel to ever call at Berth 27, following the arrival of the 5,652 TEU ‘Ever Useful’ from Evergreen.
BGT handled 4,500 TEUs during the call, and achieved a net move rate of over 50 moves per hour with a two-quay crane operation.
The development of the new terminal complex is expected to be completed in 2019, and will raise the annual handling capacity of BGT to 1,000,000 TEU, as well as enabling the handling of 9,000 TEU vessels.
Jupiter Kalambakal, of ICTSI, discusses the Manila Terminal in a recent Port Technology technical paper
In addition, equipment acquisitions include three super post-Panamax quay cranes and seven additional rubber tired gantries, which have been implemented to optimise landside handling operations.
Hans-Ole Madsen, ICTSI Senior Vice President and Europe, Middle East and Africa Regional Head, commented on the programme: “ICTSI is pleased to take a leading role in investing in Iraq’s port infrastructure, enabling the country to connect most efficiently with global liner services.
“The ability to serve direct calls from large vessels delivers has reduced cost and cargo transit times, and brings other key benefits to cargo importers.”
Phillip Marsham, BGT Chief Executive Officer, also stated: “BGT’s investment program is designed to match the requirements of a growing Iraqi economy and the need to accommodate ever larger liner vessels.
The call of the Ever Useful symbolizes how far Umm Qasr has come in improving port infrastructure to meet today’s global logistic chain requirements.
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