Vizhinjam International Seaport in Kerala is enhancing its operational capabilities with the acquisition of reach stacker cranes, designed to improve container handling and transportation efficiency. The port has received two of the four required cranes, with the remaining two set to arrive soon. These specialized mobile cranes, imported from China, are known for their excellent maneuverability and high load capacity, making them ideal for moving containers outside the port to various destinations across the country.
According to Ports Minister V N Vasavan, the reach stackers will play a critical role in the initial phase of Vizhinjam’s operations. Unlike traditional ship-to-shore cranes and yard cranes, which are limited to container movement within the yard, reach stackers can transport containers beyond the port to designated locations. This upgrade is expected to significantly enhance the port’s ability to handle both gateway and exim (export and import) cargo. The port is preparing to handle such cargo next month and has already made arrangements with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to facilitate container truck movement on the highways. This collaboration aims to ensure smooth and efficient transport of goods from the port to other parts of the country. With the addition of these mobile cranes, Vizhinjam port is poised to become a crucial hub for container handling in the region, improving logistics and strengthening its role in India’s trade infrastructure. The port’s modernized operations are expected to streamline cargo movement and contribute to the growth of India’s maritime trade.
