Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) has initiated a comprehensive upgrade of its RTG cranes used for container operations, marking the first major overhaul of the equipment in nearly 19 years. The project, aimed at improving reliability and operational efficiency, will be implemented in two phases, with the first phase focusing on modernising the control and drive systems, followed by power and engine upgrades scheduled to begin in July.

MPL said the cranes, which have been in service since 2007, require upgrading to address long-standing delays in cargo clearance and maintain operational performance. The improvements are expected to speed up port operations and ease challenges faced by businesses, complementing the 24-hour operation of the port limit area, which now allows vessels to enter the Malé Commercial Port at any time.