MUMBAI: Following the celebrations at PSA’s Terminals in Tuticorin and Chennai to mark its 20th year in India, Bharat Mumbai Container Terminals ( "BMCT" ) hosted celebrations in Mumbai and Delhi on 24 July and 25 July 2018 respectively to mark the occasion.
The Mumbai event was attended by almost 200 people from the shipping lines, logistics, trade associations and business partners; whilst the Delhi event was also well attended by the shipping and logistics fraternity from the area.
BMCT is PSA’s newest terminal in India and has already handled over 130,000 TEUs since starting operations in February.
The terminal has been regularly achieving vessel productivity levels in excess of 100 containers per hour. BMCT also won “Upcoming Terminal of the Year” at the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust ( "JNPT" ) 29th Anniversary Awards on 6 July 2018.
Regional CEO for PSA Middle East and South Asia Mr Wan Chee Foong took the opportunity at both events to thank the Ministry of Shipping, JNPT and many other Government agencies for their strong commitment and support which had enabled the timely completion of BMCT. He also expressed his appreciation to the customers and partners who continue to grow their business with PSA; as well as highlighted PSA India’s evolving focus on developing cargo solutions beyond container terminal operations. A commemoration video to mark PSA’s 20 years in India was also screened during the program, which included a message from PSA Group CEO Mr Tan Chong Meng.
At Delhi, detailed updates on BMCT’s development were provided, particularly on rail connectivity with Delhi / National Central Region.
The Mumbai event also saw an enchanting performance titled “Jewels of Mumbai” by renowned sand artist Mr. Sarvan Patel. He created sand images of Mumbai landmarks; finally ending with the image of BMCT and the PSA20 logo.
As with all PSA Terminals, BMCT continues to contribute positively to the local community. Earlier in the year the company held a Career Counselling Session for students who were, or had taken, their Higher Secondary School Certificate ( "HSC" ) and Secondary School Certificate ( "SSC" ) examinations. On 25 July 2018, BMCT with support from its staff held a blood donation camp at the terminal, said a company release.
Daily Shipping Times spoke exclusively with Mr. Mike Formoso, MD – PSA India and Mr. Wan Chee Foong, Regional CEO, MESA & Head, Group Business Development – PSA International.
Edited experts of their combined views -
Q] You came to India almost 2 decades ago with your first investment in Tuticorin? How has been your journey of two decades serving India’s foreign trade?
PSA - PSA is proud to have been an early participant in foreign direct investment in Container Terminals in India. It has been a journey of growth and partnership.
Q] Given the fact that you already have decent presence on the East and the West Coast now, what lies ahead of PSA India in terms of expansion going forward?
PSA - Our flagship project, Bharat Mumbai Container Terminals (BMCT) will double its capacity to 4.8 million TEUs by the end of 2022, making it India’s Largest Container Terminal at its ultimate phase of development. We are also actively investigating additional opportunities in Container Terminals, Logistics and Cargo solutions.
Q] How do you see the competition scenario in Indian Ports sector, and how do you plan to take on your competitors given the fact that you aspire to garner largest market share in next five years?
PSA - Through our focus on quality service levels, people development and operational excellence, we intend to start setting new standards in all areas in close collaboration with all our customers and stakeholders.
Q] The BMCT is the flagship project of PSA Global in India, completed ahead of its schedule (Phase – 1) at JN Port? What kind of service offerings can the trade expect apart from what is being already offered by other existing terminals as of now?
PSA - BMCT is a game-changer. BMCT is the only terminal in JNPT which is able to handle the Largest Vessels and hence provides carriers with flexibility and room to grow. Further BMCT is also the only DFC (Dedicated Freight Corridor) ready terminal and we eagerly look forward to the completion of DFC, which will quadruple train capacity and cut transit times to Delhi / NCR by more than half.
