Hambantota Port rejuvenates container operations with US $ 41mn crane upgrade

Vessel berthed at HIP in readiness to discharge QCs

The Hambantota International Port Group (HIPG) yesterday announced a significant investment of US $ 41 million in state-of-the-art 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 cranes (RTGs) at the Hambantota International Port (HIP), expanding the port’s capabilities to a handling capacity of one million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs).
The four QCs, which arrived on the MV De Qiang 66 on November 30, feature a twinlift 65m 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 42m above rail and 20m below rail.  The RTGs, which arrived on the same date on vessel FENG HAI DA, have a span of 23.47m and a base distance of 6.9m, 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 the 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 the HIP currently operates. The new cranes are expected to take approximately two months for commissioning.
“Our investment in these new cranes will considerably enhance the HIP’s container handling capabilities, positioning us as a fully-fledged multipurpose port for Sri Lanka,” said HIPG CEO Wilson Qu.  
“This capacity building is crucial for our transshipment 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.”
Qu added that the establishment of feeder services between Hambantota and Colombo expected soon would enhance the coastal shipping network. The addition of the 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 and 2026. 
The upgraded facilities will not only bolster operations within the port’s industrial zone but will also stimulate industry growth in the southern hinterland, creating new opportunities for local entrepreneurs. The HIPG remains committed to its goal of making significant contributions towards uplifting Sri Lanka’s economy and maritime objectives through its initiatives.