Operations at DP World Cochin touched a new high with container transshipment terminal handling its largest container vessel, MSC MARA

With the largest container vessel, MSC MARA, handling 15,934 TEUs at the container transshipment terminal here, operations at DP World Cochin have reached a new peak. This container ship is among the biggest to dock at a port in India and to berth at the International Container Transshipment facility (ICTT) in Cochin, which is also the first transshipment facility in India. It is also referred to as the Vallarpadam terminal. 

This represents the maximum throughput on MSC MARA at ICTT as well. Upon managing the containers on MSC MARA, the ICTT achieved the significant feat of managing more than 7 million TEUs since its establishment.

ICTT put into service two cutting-edge ship-to-shore mega max cranes in December 2023, each of which can handle up to 25 container rows. According to a news statement issued here on May 27, these improvements, along with the addition of four new e-RTGs and increased yard capacity, allow for quicker vessel turnaround times and sustainable cargo flow.

The port can now handle ultra-large container vessels and increase productivity greatly thanks to its improved lift capacity and handling capabilities.

According to the press release, MSC MARA's berthing signifies the terminal's growing significance as a favored entry point and expanding transshipment facility for cargo transit to and from markets in south India.

The increase in the volume of cargo handled by ICTT Vallarpadam highlights the hub's importance for connectivity and freight transit. The port is essential to trade movements since it connects about 50% of EXIM cargo directly to the Far East, Europe, West Asia, and the Mediterranean via mainline services. 

It serves as a crucial hub for the movement of coastal freight between India's east and west coasts, improving economic efficiency and regional connectivity.