Adani’s Colombo Terminal commences operations

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ) announced the commencement of operations at Colombo West International Terminal (CWIT) located at the Port of Colombo.

"Developed under a public–private partnership, CWIT is operated by a consortium comprising APSEZ, leading Sri Lankan conglomerate John Keells Holdings and the Sri Lanka Ports Authority, under a 35-year build, operate and transfer (BOT) agreement," says an official release from APSEZ.

The CWIT project represents an investment of $800 million and features a 1,400-metre quay length and 20-metre depth, enabling the terminal to handle approximately 3.2 million TEUs annually. It is the first deep-water terminal in Colombo to be fully automated, designed to enhance cargo handling capabilities, improve vessel turnaround times and elevate the port’s status as a key transshipment hub in South Asia, the release added.

"The commencement of operations at CWIT marks a momentous milestone in regional cooperation between India and Sri Lanka," says Gautam Adani, Chairman, Adani Group. "Not only does this terminal represent the future of trade in the Indian Ocean but its opening is also a proud moment for Sri Lanka, placing it firmly on the global maritime map. The CWIT project will create thousands of direct and indirect jobs locally and unlock immense economic value for the island nation. It also stands as a shining example of the deep-rooted friendship and growing strategic ties between the two neighbours, and of what can be achieved through visionary public–private partnerships. Delivering this world-class facility in record time also reflects the Adani Group’s proven ability to efficiently execute large-scale critical infrastructure projects anywhere in the world."

Krishan Balendra, Chairperson, John Keells Group adds: "We are proud to see the progress in the development of the West Container Terminal, a project that strengthens Sri Lanka’s position as a regional maritime hub. This project is one of the John Keells Group’s largest investments and is among the most significant private sector investments in Sri Lanka. Together with the Sri Lanka Ports Authority and the Adani Group, we will elevate Colombo’s status as a leading transshipment hub. We are confident that the project will enhance global trade and connectivity in the region."