In the last few years, container terminal operator DP World has been taking efforts to attract foreign and domestic shipping lines to Vallarpadam International Container Transhipment Terminal (ICTT).
DP World is attracting shipping lines by informing them about the productivity and performance of the terminal and also the ‘strike-free image’ of the Kochi port.
In order to attract more number of ships, there is a need to create a better image for the port, particularly in the wake of cabotage relaxation, KK Krishnadas, Director and Chief Executive Officer, DP World, Kochi, said. He was speaking at a lecture meeting – Vallarpadam, an update – organised by the Kerala Management Association.
Initially, shipping lines were quite apprehensive about the facilities available as flash strikes and other uncertainties sent a negative signal. This has changed now. However, more collective efforts are needed to make the port a success in competition with other global terminals, he added.
But he said the promotional efforts are yielding results and mainline shipping companies are now sending at least one ship to Kochi on a trial basis. There are several enquiries from leading shipping lines to use Kochi for its transhipment requirements especially after cabotage relaxation, he added.
According to Das, the berth basins of the Vallarpadam terminal is going to achieve a 14.5 metre draught by February, as Dredging Corporation of India is all set to complete the capital dredging works shortly.
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