August 8 - Singapore's Jurong Port has commenced operations at its Combi Terminal, which has been designed to cater for multipurpose vessels carrying a variety of general cargoes.
Jurong Port says the new terminal means that multipurpose ships no longer need to call at separate berths or terminals to load and unload different types of cargo.
The quay cranes at the Combi Terminal have been adapted to handle containers, as well as other general cargo. Mobile harbour cranes have also been deployed for the handling of heavy lift cargoes, said the port.
The 6.6 ha terminal comprises three deepwater berths, measuring 575 m long with a 15.7 m draft.
According to the Singaporean port, its multipurpose cargo handling opportunities have prompted Pilbara Express Lines to initiate a new direct liner service between Jurong Port and the Port of Dampier in Western Australia.
"The Combi Terminal adds to Singapore's position as a premier transhipment hub. With this, the new route to the Port of Dampier will expand Singapore's hinterland for transhipment to the Pilbara region in Australia, enhancing business connectivity, opening up more trade and investment opportunities for companies," said Law Chung Ming, group director of transport and logistics at International Enterprise Singapore, which has been working with the port to expand its business.
In addition to Pilbara Express Lines, multipurpose carriers Eng Lee Shipping and ANL have also included the new terminal in their services.
