MOL expands Kobe Container Terminal to four berths

Twelve remote-controlled electric RTGs will support operations.

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) has signed a lease agreement for four berths at the expanded South Pier in the Port of Kobe, increasing capacity at the Kobe International Container Terminal (KICT).

The agreement with Kobe-Osaka International Port covers Berths PC14-17 at the Port Island (Phase 2) area.

KICT, jointly operated by MOL, Sankyu, The Sumitomo Warehouse and Nickel & Lyons, will expand from three to four berths. Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha (“K” Line) will also join the terminal, which is expected to handle about 40% of containerised international cargo at the Port of Kobe.

The expansion will increase KICT’s total quay length from 1,050 metres to 1,750 metres, allowing more flexible vessel berthing and improving transshipment connectivity.

The expanded terminal will also feature 12 electric rubber-tired gantry cranes with remote-control capabilities. Operators will be able to control the cranes from a dedicated operations building, reducing exposure to weather and physical strain whilst improving safety and productivity.

MOL also began full-scale, round-the-clock operations of its CONPAS port information system in March to address congestion at container terminal gates and reduce trailer waiting times.

The company said it will continue using digital technologies to improve container logistics efficiency and productivity. It also plans to reduce terminal emissions through solar panels installed at container gates and on logistics facility rooftops.