News Release

14th March 2014

KICT Launches Green Equipment Initiatives


14-Mar-2014

Karachi International Container Terminal (KICT) recently launched a series of Green equipment initiatives that are expected to result in a reduction at the terminal of 4 million kilograms of CO2 per annum, part of the company’s goal to serve Pakistan’s import/export trade in an environmentally-sustainable manner.

The Green programme will cover the conversion of 20 Rubber-Tyred Gantry Cranes (RTGCs) into hybrid models and electrification of 7 Quay Cranes (QCs). The hybrid RTGC project was successfully completed on 6 December 2013 with a total investment of US$5.5 million and the QC electrification is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2014.

Mr. Keith Lau, Chief Executive Officer of KICT said, “KICT is mindful of the need to protect the environment and is actively identifying viable options to ‘reduce, reuse and recycle’ in its operations. The conversion of RTGCs into hybrid models and the electrification of QCs underline our commitment to reduce our carbon footprint and conserve resources. It has also set a benchmark for the industry to adopt Green management practices.”

KICT is the largest container terminal operator in Pakistan with 11 QCs and 29 RTGCs in operation and has again set an example for the industry by being the first operator in the country to electrify its QCs and covert RTGCs into hybrid models.

The electric QCs are connected to a newly-built powerhouse that is more efficient than individual onboard diesel engines and the Hybrid RTGCs are fitted with batteries. Both of these allow for the utilisation of recycled power that is produced when containers are lowered. The results are substantial fuel savings and a reduction in carbon emissions.