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Port of Salalah's Expansion Enhances Capacity and Efficiency Shipping Arabia, June 12, 2024 — The Port of Salalah continues its ambitious $300 million expansion plan with the recent arrival of the final set of four supersized ship-to-shore (STS) cranes, marking a significant milestone. This acquisition brings the total to ten new cranes, poised to elevate the port’s annual container handling capacity from 5 million to 6 million TEU by year-end. Despite ongoing upgrades that started last year, the Port of Salalah maintained its leading performance, securing the second rank in the Global Efficiency Ranking for the third consecutive year, as reported in the 2023 Container Port Performance Index (CPPI) by the World Bank and S&P Global Market Intelligence. The addition of these cranes is set to further enhance port stay efficiency, catering to the largest ships currently in service. Scott Selman, COO at the Port of Salalah, highlighted the strategic advantages of the new equipment: “We expect these cranes to help us reduce port stay even further by giving us faster access to top tiers on the ship. They will also increase our capacity to bring in the world’s largest ships built to date - fulfilling a need for our customers and giving us an opportunity to handle more volume.” In addition to the cranes, the port’s equipment fleet has expanded to include 12 hybrid rubber-tyred gantry cranes, two reach stackers, six empty handlers, and 30 terminal trucks and trailers. This upgrade not only supports the operational expansion but also aligns with the port's commitment to sustainability. Significant infrastructure enhancements have been implemented to support this expansion, including the installation of a new high-capacity power substation and reinforcement of the existing electrical network established in 1998. These upgrades are crucial for supporting the electrification of the new equipment and the port's long-term sustainability goals, including achieving net-zero emissions by 2040. The yard is also seeing extensive development with the expansion and the introduction of a new access road. Modifications to support the new cranes have been completed on four of the six berths, with the remaining two underway. This strategic development not only confirms the Port of Salalah's role as a key player in global maritime logistics but also sets the stage for the port to become a primary hub for the Gemini Cooperation starting in Q1 2025. The ongoing expansion and modernization efforts are expected to significantly enhance the port’s operational efficiency and capacity, ensuring it remains competitive in the international shipping industry. Source: Port of Salalah #Salalah #APMTerminals #Maritime #Ports #Oman #Expansion

Discover the Ministry of Transport's Grand Port of Alexandria Development Projects Shipping Arabia, September 17, 2024 — The Ministry of Transport is advancing a comprehensive master plan for the Grand Port of Alexandria, aimed at positioning Egypt as a global trade and logistics hub. The plan focuses on modernizing the port's infrastructure to support international logistics, accommodate large vessels, and cater to major global shipping lines. Several key projects are currently under construction, with some expected to be operational in the first quarter of 2025. Among the most critical initiatives are: One of the standout projects is the Tahya Misr Multipurpose Terminal (Berths 55-62). This terminal boasts a berth length of 2,500 meters and a depth of 17.5 meters, enhancing the port's ability to handle a diverse range of cargo. Another significant project is the Timber and Grain Berth Terminal (85/3), which stretches 433 meters in length with a depth of 1,505 meters. This terminal is expected to bolster the port's capabilities in handling timber and grain cargo, key to Egypt's agricultural and industrial sectors. At Dekheila Port, the development of a Multipurpose Terminal at Berth 100 is also underway. This terminal will have a total berth length of 1,680 meters and a depth of 18 meters, designed to accommodate larger vessels and provide greater flexibility in cargo operations. Additionally, a Clean Dry Bulk Terminal at Dekheila is being developed, featuring a berth length of 1,150 meters and a depth of 15.5 meters. The port's capacity will further be expanded with the Non-Clean Dry Bulk Terminal, which will have a berth length of 540 meters. This facility will handle cargo that requires more specialized environmental controls during loading and unloading. To ensure these activities can operate efficiently, the Ministry is also constructing new Wave Breakers at the Grand Port of Alexandria. This effort will create a stable marine environment that can support the full range of logistics activities planned for the port. Lastly, the Ministry is developing an Integrated Logistics Zone at El-Metras Basin. Spanning 273 acres, this zone will enhance the port's logistical capabilities, providing comprehensive support for cargo storage, distribution, and handling operations. These development efforts reflect Egypt’s commitment to modernizing its maritime infrastructure and supporting its ambition to become a critical hub for international trade and logistics. The Grand Port of Alexandria will play a pivotal role in advancing the country’s maritime strategy and strengthening its position in the global shipping industry. Source: Al Youm Al Sabea News #Egypt #Alexandria #Maritime #Transportation #Development

The Indian ports and shipping sector has witnessed significant transformation and growth over the years. Initiatives such as the integration of technology into port operations, capacity enhancement and sustainability measures have played a key role in shaping the sector. Further, continued support for public-private partnership (PPP) models has driven positive changes in the sector. In an interview with Indian Infrastructure, Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), discusses the sector’s progress, key trends and challenges, and the future outlook. Edited excerpts: https://lnkd.in/gFMDuH5j #IndianPorts #ShippingIndustry #PortDevelopment #Sagarmala #PortInfrastructure #Sustainability #TechnologyInPorts #GreenEnergy #CoastalCargo #PublicPrivatePartnership #PortCapacity #SmartPorts #Shipbuilding #MaritimeIndia #GreenShipping #Logistics #GlobalTrade #DigitalPorts #PPPModel #GreenHydrogen #FerryCruise Ministry of Ports , Shipping and Waterways (India)

“The maritime sector is poised for significant growth and modernisation” In an interview with Indian Infrastructure, Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), discusses the sector’s progress, key trends and challenges, and the future outlook. Edited excerpts here: https://lnkd.in/gFMDuH5j #PortsAndShipping #IndiaInfrastructure #SustainableGrowth #TechIntegration #PPP #Logistics #SupplyChain #MaritimeIndia #PortDevelopment #SarbanandaSonowal

Walvis Bay harbour enters a new era: Niël Terblanché Namibia’s journey to solidify its position as a key logistics hub in Southern Africa took a major leap forward with the official handover of the container handling operations at the new container terminal in the Walvis Bay harbour to Terminal Investment Namibia (TiN). This strategic partnership between the Namibian Ports Authority (Namport) and TiN, set to commence on 10 October, will enhance Namibia’s maritime competitiveness while strengthening its role in regional and international shipping. TiN is a subsidiary of Switzerland-based Terminal Investment Limited (TiL). According to a joint statement issued by Namport and TiN on Wednesday, the concession of the port’s new container terminal, which was commissioned in 2019 under the leadership of the late President Hage Geingob, comes after an extensive market bidding exercise where TiL emerged as the preferred operator. This move was driven by Namport’s goal of attracting private capital to upgrade infrastructure, including widening and deepening the port’s channel, acquiring modern equipment, and optimizing operational efficiency. The terminal, with an annual throughput capacity of 750 000 Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEUs), is expected to undergo immediate improvements. Dredging activities to widen and deepen the entrance channel to -16 meters Chart Datum (below water level) will accommodate larger vessels, expanding the port’s capacity and shipping connectivity. According to the statement, the partnership aims to boost vessel traffic, increase cargo volumes, and create numerous employment opportunities for Namibians. Under the 25-year concession agreement, TiN will manage and operate the terminal with a focus on operational efficiencies and revenue growth. The collaboration is vital to advancing service delivery at the port of Walvis Bay which become a key gateway for trade in Southern Africa. Namport anticipates that this partnership will enhance the country’s competitive standing among regional ports and support Namibia’s vision of becoming a logistics hub for Southern Africa. For Namibia, the agreement with TiN offers more than just infrastructure improvements. TiN, backed by its parent company Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), one of the largest shipping lines in the world, brings with it a wealth of expertise in logistics and port operations. The statement indicates ty leveraging the global network of MSC and TiL as the new terminal operator aims to introduce advanced operational standards and innovative practices that will position Namibia as a premier player in the maritime industry. TiN’s commitment to expanding the terminal’s facilities includes plans to enhance storage capacity and streamline cargo handling processes. These operational upgrades, combined with innovative port practices, are expected to facilitate long-term growth…

India’s Biggest Port, Vadhavan Port, Will Be Among The World's Top 10 Container Ports TOI Business Desk / Agencies / UPDATED: 11 JUL 2024 Did you know that India aims to build its largest ever container port - and one that will be among the top 10 in the world? To put its magnitude into perspective, Vadhavan will be over three times the size of India's current largest ports—the government-operated Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) in Mumbai and the Adani-owned Mundra! According to an ET report by Shantanu Nandan Sharma, the Vadhavan port on the Maharashtra coast in Palghar district will be a behemoth in the global shipping industry. Vadhavan port will be equipped to accommodate some of the world's largest cargo ships, capable of carrying 24,000 20-ft containers. Vadhavan port completion date: The Vadhavan port, set to be operational by 2030, will be developed by reclaiming 1,448 hectares of sea land, eliminating the need for land acquisition. Tenders for the project will be issued in the near future. Vadhavan Port location: The port's strategic location and ability to accommodate large vessels will give it a competitive edge over other ports, particularly in serving Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Northern and Central India. Unmesh Sharad Wagh, chairman of JNPA, has said that the port's direct connectivity to the Dedicated Freight Corridor will reduce transit time and cost for rail traffic. Vadhavan port facts: The blueprint for Vadhavan projects that the port will handle 23.2 million TEUs of cargo by 2040, when the second phase is completed. This ambitious target reflects India's strategic intent to compete with leading global ports and establish Vadhavan as a significant player in the container traffic market. Vadhavan port details: The port will feature nine container terminals, each 1000 meters long, along with four multipurpose berths, four liquid cargo berths, a Ro-Ro berth, and a Coast Guard berth. The project involves the reclamation of 1,448 hectares of sea area and the construction of a 10.14 km offshore breakwater and container/cargo storage areas. Vadhavan port employment: Calling Vadhavan a "mega port infra for New India," Minister for Ports, Shipping & Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal announced on social media that the cabinet's decision to build such a large port would "strengthen India’s maritime prowess." He also said that the new infrastructure would create approximately 1.2 million employment opportunities. Vadhavan port strategic significance: On the geopolitical stage, Vadhavan is expected to serve as a hub port in the Arabian Sea, strategically serving container traffic destined for the Gulf, Europe, and even African countries. https://lnkd.in/dFP98kAn

Egypt’s Ministry of Transport Launches Major Port Development to Boost Global Trade Shipping Arabia, June 25, 2024 — The Egyptian Ministry of Transport has unveiled a comprehensive development plan aimed at enhancing the nation’s port capacities and solidifying its role as a crucial player in global maritime trade. Capitalizing on its strategic position by the Red and Mediterranean Seas and the vital Suez Canal, Egypt is set to transform its maritime infrastructure to better serve and integrate into the global trading system. The plan includes the extension of berthing facilities and the enhancement of navigational capabilities across several key ports. Notably, new berths totaling 67 kilometers with depths between 18-22 meters will be constructed at critical locations such as Berenice, Safaga, Suez, and Adabiya on the Red Sea, and Arish, Port Said, Damietta, and Alexandria on the Mediterranean. These expansions will increase the total length of Egypt’s port berths to 100 kilometers. Furthermore, the Ministry plans to construct 15 kilometers of wave barriers and deepen navigational channels to accommodate an annual capacity of 400 million tons, a significant increase from the current 185 million tons. This expansion will also support the handling of 40 million TEUs annually, a substantial rise from the existing 12 million TEUs, and allow the docking of 30,000 mega-ships each year. A notable project nearing completion is the Tahiya Misr station at the Port of Alexandria. This multi-purpose facility spans 2.5 kilometers with an area of 560,000 square meters and can handle 12-15 million tons of cargo, costing a total of 7 billion Egyptian pounds. Additionally, a new pier for timber and grain handling, capable of accommodating vessels up to 70,000 tons, has been constructed. At Damietta Port, a multi-purpose station with berths extending 681 meters was built at a cost of 1.365 billion Egyptian pounds. The port's eastern barrier has been expanded by 1,420 meters, and construction continues on the western barrier, spanning 5,400 meters at a cost of 2.5 billion Egyptian pounds. These ambitious projects are part of a broader strategy to develop integrated international logistic corridors linking production areas with seaports, enhancing Egypt’s capacity for manufacturing, logistics, and value-added services. This initiative is set to bolster Egypt’s position as a global hub for trade and logistics, attracting both foreign and local investments to the sector. This development strategy aligns with Egypt’s efforts to participate actively in the global market, reflecting its commitment to upgrading its maritime infrastructure to meet international standards and increase its commercial attractiveness. Source: Al Dostor #Egypt #Maritime #Ports #Development #Logistics #GlobalTrade

Port of Virginia expansion boosts ultralarge container vessel capacity Ship channel up to 1,400 feet wide in some areas, permitting 2-way traffic of largest vessels By Noi Mahoney · Monday, March 25, 2024 FreightWaves Port officials estimate the wider channel will reduce the amount of time ultralarge container vessels spend berthing and waiting to unload cargo by up to 15%. The Port of Virginia recently completed a project to widen its ship channel to allow better access for the world’s largest container ships. The port’s shipping channel is now up to 1,400 feet wide in some areas, allowing simultaneous two-way traffic of ultralarge container vessels (ULCVs) traveling through Norfolk Harbor, officials said.  When ULCVs are on their way in or out, it closed the channel to all other traffic,” Joe Harris, spokesman for the Port of Virginia, told FreightWaves. “Now we can pass two ULCVs at once or a container ship and a coal ship, or a coal ship and a Navy ship at the same time. It’s very efficient for all the partners in the harbor.” Port officials estimate the wider channel will reduce the amount of time ULCVs spend berthing by up to 15%. The channel widening is part of the port’s $1.4 billion strategic infrastructure investment package that aims to support larger cargo ships and increase the speed of freight moving through the gateway. Work is also underway to dredge the port’s shipping channels to 55 feet deep and the ocean approach to 59 feet deep. The deepening project is scheduled to be completed in 2025. The wider and deeper channel will lay the groundwork for future developments at the Port of Virginia, Harris said. “The wider channel will allow us to turn our berths quicker and more regularly, so we don’t have to have that vessel sitting berthed for four hours while others are passing, and then it can pull out, so you have that greater flow of cargo and more efficient flow of cargo,” Harris said. “When you have that flow, what it does is it truly attracts users that want to be around a logistics center and brings them to Virginia.” Headquartered in Norfolk, Virginia, the port consists of four deep-water marine terminals, an upriver terminal and an inland intermodal terminal. The Port of Virginia, operated by the Virginia Port Authority, is one of the busiest seaports in the country. In 2023, the port handled 3.3 million twenty-foot equivalent units, compared to 3.7 million units in 2022, which was a record for the port. Class I railroads Norfolk Southern and CSX serve the port via on-dock intermodal container transfer facilities at the Virginia International Gateway and Norfolk International Terminals. The Port of Virginia is also a hub for 30 international shipping lines that offer direct, dedicated service to more than 80 ports around the world. In an average week, more than 40 international container, breakbulk and roll-on/roll-off vessels are serviced at the port’s marine terminals.

Sarbananda Sonowal Approves Project Worth More Than Rs. 800 Crore To Transform Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port The Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways has approved Re-Construction of Berth No. 8 and Mechanization of Berth Nos. 7 and 8 at Netaji Subhash Dock of KDS, Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port. This significant decision was taken by the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, marking a pivotal moment in the port’s development journey. The approved project will be executed on a Design, Build, Finance, Operate, and Transfer (DBFOT) basis through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) mode. The estimated project cost stands at Rs. 809.18 crore, underscoring the magnitude of this endeavor. This project is poised to bring a paradigm shift in the operational landscape of the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port. Key benefits include the establishment of an effective, efficient, and environmentally sustainable integrated cargo handling system, which will significantly bolster the port’s operational efficiency. Additionally, the creation of additional berthing and cargo handling facilities will cater to both import and export activities, thereby amplifying the port’s capacity and versatility, resulting in enhanced overall performance and competitiveness. ‘Under the leadership of the Prime Minister and by taking several initiatives at ports, the cargo handling capacity of the ports has doubled in the last ten years. The Mechanization at ports isn’t just about upgrading infrastructure; it’s about empowering our nation’s trade ecosystem with efficiency and global competitiveness,’ said Sonowal. In West Bengal, the Sagarmala Programme oversees 62 projects valued at Rs. 16,300 crore, with 19 completed projects worth approximately Rs. 1,100 crore and 43 projects at various stages of implementation totaling around Rs. 15 thousand crore Additionally, 11 projects, partially funded by MoPSW, amounting to around Rs. 650 crore have seen 6 projects completed (worth Rs. 400 crore) and 5 projects (worth Rs. 250 crore) under development. Notably, the Coastal Districts Skill Development Program – Phase 2 – West Bengal, sanctioned for Rs. 6.32 crore, has yet to commence despite Rs. 2.10 crore being released in Dec 2019. Among the achievements, projects like Road Connectivity Improvement (worth ~Rs. 100 crore) have led to traffic decongestion and improved port connectivity, while the Upgradation of tracks at EJC yard of Kolkata Port (Rs. 47 crore) has enhanced operational efficiency and reduced incidents of derailment.Kolkata Port Trust Ministry of Ports ,Shipping and Waterways. Government of India

Kuwait to Establish Maritime Industrial Port in Southern Region Shipping Arabia, April 16, 2024 — A significant development is underway in Kuwait's southern region with plans to establish a maritime industrial port, as reported by local media. This initiative, first proposed in 2014 under the "Development of the Southern Region" study, is being revived in alignment with Kuwait's Third Structural Plan. The project aims to enhance the industrial landscape and logistics framework of the area. Reda Al-Senary of Al Rai Newspaper, reports that the Border Committee has officially confirmed the location of the port within Kuwaiti borders, setting the stage for the project's initiation. Designed to support the southern industrial area extensively, this project extends beyond mere profitability to catalyze regional development. The Kuwaiti Ports Authority, in collaboration with the Public Authority for Industry, is leading this ambitious project. An MOU signed on May 20, 2020, specifies the port's intended activities, which include the relocation of grain and cement suction from Shuwaikh Port, and the establishment of facilities for shipbuilding, repair, and maintenance. Notably, the Kuwait Flour Mills and Bakeries Company has expressed interest in constructing silos and a mill within the port's premises. Strategically situated near the Kuwaiti-Saudi border in the Nuwaiseeb area, the port's location was chosen for its optimal access to main roads and proximity to the Gulf Railway project. The port's extensive layout will feature a food security area, a shipbuilding basin, a general cargo station, and an industrial cluster, facilitating a wide range of industrial and logistic operations. The food security area will span approximately 430,000 square meters, featuring an 800-meter-long quay with three large silos and service buildings. The shipbuilding basin will house two dry docks for large and medium-sized vessels, plus space for open areas, warehouses, and offices. Additionally, the general cargo station will cover 650,000 square meters, including a 500-meter-long quay and extensive storage facilities. The industrial cluster area will be equipped to house heavy industries such as iron and aluminum production, alongside several buildings estimated to cover about 430,000 square meters. The establishment of this maritime industrial port is poised to enhance the supply of bulk materials essential for constructing new cities and fostering industrial development throughout southern Kuwait. It also aims to boost the local industry index by providing necessary infrastructure to attract and nurture local and international investments, thereby creating diverse job opportunities and supporting export operations. This project represents a significant step in Kuwait's long-term strategy to enhance its logistics sector and reinforce its role as a pivotal economic player in the region. Source: Al Rai Newspaper #IndustrialPort #Kuwait #MaritimeNews #Projects