In response, the Sri Lanka Port Authority (SLPA) is working on interim measures to accommodate the growth at the terminals it controls.
“In the short run we are making arrangements to accommodate the growth,” said Priyath Wickrema, chairman of SLPA. “The port-wide growth is projected to be 10-12% this year, but SLPA, is expecting a 22% growth year-on-year.”
According to Mr Wickrema, the SPLA plans include making full use of an under-utilised 200-metre feeder berth.
He added: “Also, we are replacing old cranes and yard equipment; under this programme we are bringing in four super post-panamax gantry cranes, five RTGs and 50 yard tractors.
“In addition to this we are adding two further super post-panamax gantry cranes with 15 RTGs to enhance the efficiency. We hope that we should be able to cater to the increasing demand with these measures in the short run.”