Colombo West International Terminal to Receive Major Equipment Boost with Arrival of New Cranes

Colombo West International Terminal (CWIT), one of the premier container terminals under development in Sri Lanka, is on track for its planned development with the upcoming arrival of new equipment to enhance its operational capacity at the Port of Colombo. On December 1, 2024, the terminal will welcome a new batch of state-of-the-art equipment, that includes two Ship-to-Shore (STS) cranes and three Yard Gantry Cranes (CRMGs), as part of its ongoing development.

The terminal is progressing steadily in line with its Project development plans, nearing the completion of its first phase. Key infrastructure milestones have been achieved, including the completion of the 600-meter jetty deck, which has already received equipment vessels previously. The MV GHT Marinas has set sail, carrying the new STS cranes and Yard Gantry Cranes, with the vessel expected to berth at CWIT on December 1st, 2024.

With this delivery, CWIT's fleet of equipment will be significantly strengthened, bringing the total number of STS cranes to 4 and Yard Gantry Cranes to 11, adding to the existing 2 STS and 8 CRMG cranes that are already under commissioning. The terminal is also preparing to receive an additional 4 STS cranes in January 2025 which will increase the total STS count to 8 along with yard gantry Cranes increasing to 18.

The commissioning of this advanced equipment is well underway, and CWIT is on track to begin commercial operations by Q1 2025. This will allow Port of Colombo to significantly increase its capacity, providing an excellent opportunity for businesses and trade partners to tap into the port's enhanced operational capabilities. Commencement of CWIT Operations will support the growing demand for container handling and ensure smooth facilitation for international shipping lines.

“The Sri Lanka CWIT project is progressing as planned. Phase 1 of the project is on schedule and is nearing completion. It will become commercially operational by Q1 2025. We already see business opportunities with the trade for a quick ramp up of CWIT port operations” CWIT officials confirmed.

The development of CWIT aligns perfectly with the broader development plans for the Port of Colombo, which is on a trajectory to double its container handling capacity over the next two years. With an ambitious goal of reaching 15 million TEUs by 2026, the development of CWIT and the Port of Colombo will ensure Sri Lanka remains a key trans-shipment hub for global trade.

Colombo West International Terminal (CWIT) is a state-of-the-art container terminal located at the Port of Colombo, Sri Lanka. The terminal is being developed in phases and will significantly increase the port’s capacity to handle larger vessels and higher container volumes. Once fully operational, CWIT will play a vital role in supporting the growing trade and logistics needs of Sri Lanka and the surrounding region.