Inter Coastal Services to boost container movements

Takoradi, March 09, GNA - The introduction of Inter Coastal Container Shipping Services would facilitate trade, ease traffic congestion and ensure the safe delivery of goods and services especially containers. Mr Paul A. Ansah, Marketing and Consumer Services Manager of the Takoradi Port said this when a 20-member trade delegation from Amsterdam visited the Takoradi Port on Wednesday.

He said the service, which became operational last year, shuttles between the Tema and Takoradi ports. Mainly for container handling and transportation, the service eases the burden on the roads and shifts the focus to the sea.

A 250-ton crane had been installed at the Takoradi Port to assist the Inter Coastal Shipping services in its operations. Mr Ansah said berthing facilities, lack of transit sheds, low warehousing facilities and limited haulage trucks were some of the major problems confronting the harbour.

Mr Cyril Nertey, acting Director General of the Takoradi Port, commended the group for their interest in the port and said the bond of friendship between them must be strengthened.

He said Ghana and the Seaports of Amsterdam must work closely for the mutual benefit of both countries through trade.

Mr. Mark van der Horst, Vice Major of Amsterdam and leader of the delegation, said their trip was to consolidate their friendship with Ghana and expand business ties.

He said Unicontrol Holding was already operating in the Takoradi Port and assisting in its export activities.

Mr Horst said though the expansion master plan of the port was laudable, investment was too huge and suggested that the plan should be implemented in phases.