Hambantota Port Rejuvenates Container Operations with $41 Million Crane Upgrade

COLOMBO (News 1st): The Hambantota International Port Group (HIPG) announced a significant investment of US dollars 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 thirteen rubber-tyred gantry Cranes (RTGs) 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 30th November feature a Twinlift 65m outreach, with impressive load ratings of 50 tons for single handling, 65 tons for 
tandem lifting, and 75 tons 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 tons 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 are 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. 

“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,” says Wilson Qu, 
CEO of HIPG. “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. 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. 

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 Hambantota International Port Group remains committed to its goal of making significant contributions towards uplifting Sri Lanka's economy and maritime objectives through its initiatives.