Colombo port’s first semi-automated container terminal ECT to operationalise by Sept.

Efforts are underway to complete the construction of and operationalise the East Container Terminal (ECT), the first and the largest semi-automated container terminal at Colombo port by September.

The terminal features a 1,320-metre berth capable of accommodating three mega container vessels simultaneously and an 84-hectare container yard that can store 55,000 TEUs.

The terminal will be equipped with 12 of the world’s largest and most advanced semi-automated ship-to-shore gantry cranes and 40-yard cranes for efficient operation. To date, six of these ship-to-shore gantry cranes have been installed and are operational.

The Sri Lanka Port Authority (SLPA) emphasises that the terminal is fully planned and successfully constructed by SLPA engineers, funded by the SLPA with a budget of $ 540 million. SLPA is confident that, upon completion, the terminal will handle more than 3 million TEUs annually.

Ports, Shipping, and Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva on Saturday made a special inspection visit to observe the ongoing constructions of the ECT. 

The Minister instructed SLPA officials to expedite the construction work and commence operations by September this year. Ministry Secretary K.D.S. Ruwanchandra, SLPA Chairman Keith D. Bernard, Vice Chairman Gayan Algewattege, and several other officials also participated in the visit.