Increasing container traffic: Another terminal may box in Chennai port.

(From Business Line)

Byline: Raja Simhan T E

CONTAINER traffic through the privately-run Chennai container terminal is increasing at a rapid pace.

The Chennai Port Trust (ChPT) is thinking of a second container terminal inside the Chennai port to meet the increasing container traffic, and also provide an alternative to the trade.

The private terminal, which is operated by Chennai Container Terminal Limited (CCTL) of P&O Ports, is likely to close 2004 with a throughput of over six lakh TEUs (twenty foot equivalent units), against 5.39 lakh TEUs last year.

The throughput in the next couple of years could even touch around 7.5 lakh TEUs, and the private terminal will be choked by then.

But will a second terminal inside the Chennai port decongest the container terminal and provide an alternative avenue for users? …