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Basra Gateway Terminal (BGT) continues to raise the standard for terminal operations in Iraq by setting a new productivity record of 105 moves per hour. This performance is claimed to be the highest ship-to-shore crane productivity rate so far achieved in the country.
The new record, achieved on 26th January during the handling of the 5,652 TEU capacity Ever Uberty, overtakes BGT’s previous record of 101 moves per hour achieved last November.
Encouraged also by a continued increase in trade volumes, Phillip Marsham, BGT chief executive officer, is enthusiastic about the new productivity milestone. He said, “We are constantly striving to increase our operational efficiency to maintain our competitive edge in the industry. With this new record, the Port of Umm Qasr can easily compete with the largest and most efficient ports in the world.”
BGT has benefitted over the last few years from a US$250 million investment by parent company International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI). Completed in late 2019, the programme of works included the development of three new berths at BGT East, featuring a design depth of 14m alongside and served by post-Panamax cranes that enable the handling of up to 14,000 TEU capacity vessels. The investment also included the comprehensive upgrade of BGT’s general cargo and ro-ro facilities, as well as dedicated warehousing and specialised facilities for project cargo for the oil and gas sector.
