Manufactured and delivered by ZPMC, the cranes are part of a larger investment totalling $282 million, which includes 12 STS cranes and 40 ARMGs (Automatic Rail-Mounted Gantry cranes). This investment is geared towards the second development stage of ECT, slated for completion by the end of 2025.
“This progress represents a significant milestone in the terminal’s expansion, emphasizing our commitment to maintaining a leading position in global trade facilitation. It ensures our ability to efficiently meet the demands of our customers,” Sri Lanka Ports Authority said.
The first three STS cranes from the series were delivered in February 2024. The cranes have 26-row outreach. Back reach extends to 25m, with a lifting height above the rail of 55 m and a lifting height below the rail of 18m. The maximum load capacity under the spreader is 65t, while under the lifting beam the cranes can handle up to 75t.
The development of the second phase of the Eastern Container Terminal began in 2022 with China Harbour Engineering Co and Access Engineering PLC carrying out the construction works.
Sri Lanka Ports Authority Phase II will see the quayline extended to 1,320m to accommodate three Ultra Large Container Carriers (ULCC), along with the development of 75 acres of container yard to increase Colombo’s annual handling capacity to 14 million TEU. The cost of the second phase is US$510 million, of which the SLPA will provide US$200 million.
Phase I of the terminal has been operational since October 2020.
