Chattogram: Red Sea Gateway Terminal (RSGT) Bangladesh has set a new benchmark in vessel handling productivity at the Patenga Container Terminal (PCT) within Chattogram Port. According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Saudi-based company achieved an impressive peak of 58 containers (82 TEUs) per hour using Ship-to-Shore (STS) cranes on the CMA-CGM vessel 'MV Wanen'.
The record was established on September 10 during the loading and unloading of the 'MV Wanen', a gearless vessel that operates without onboard cranes, utilizing the newly commissioned STS cranes at the Patenga terminal. RSGT Bangladesh reported that this productivity level nearly doubles the average container handling rate at Chattogram Port, which generally stands at 30 containers (48 TEUs) per hour.
The introduction of advanced equipment marks the first operation of a gearless vessel at the terminal, highlighting a significant milestone. Company representatives attribute this success to the use of state-of-the-art technology, expertise in international terminal operations, modern operational techniques, and a skilled workforce.
This achievement is expected to reduce vessel turnaround time, enhance jetty utilization efficiency, and potentially lower vessel-related costs, while simultaneously boosting the overall efficiency of the national maritime supply chain. The company plans to continue its investment in modern infrastructure, technology, operational proficiency, and workforce development to transform the Patenga Container Terminal into a more efficient and competitive maritime gateway in global trade.
In a statement, Erwin Haaze, CEO of RSGT Bangladesh, commented on the accomplishment, stating, "Achieving a rate of 58 moves-or 82 TEUs-per hour is not just a standard productivity milestone; it underscores the vast potential of modern port management in Bangladesh." He emphasized that the success was a result of the integration of top-tier technology, global expertise, systematic operational procedures, and a proficient workforce.
The Saudi firm in charge of operations announced that the service capacity of the Red Sea Gateway Terminal (RSGT) Chittagong has been enhanced following an upgrade in its operational capabilities. The terminal, previously known as the Patenga Container Terminal, was transferred to RSGT in June 2024 under a public-private partnership framework. This transfer marks the first instance of a terminal in Bangladesh being managed long-term under such an arrangement.
Initially, the operating company encountered challenges in fully utilizing the terminal's capacity due to various limitations, resulting in low container handling rates. However, the introduction of new facilities has significantly increased the cargo handling rate at the terminal. Before the addition of four advanced gantry cranes, the terminal relied on traditional methods, particularly using ship-mounted cranes, for loading and unloading containers.
The Patenga Container Terminal boasts an annual container handling capacity of approximately 450,000 Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs).