These cranes are currently being installed for testing and commissioning on berths 1 and 2.

Work is expected to be completed by September to be ready in time for the port trial in October.

The cranes, manufactured by IMPSA, have an outreach of 53 meters and a lifting capacity of 50 tonnes.

They were designed specifically to cater to the world's largest super post panamax vessels.

In a press release, PTP said it was confident that the cranes superior hoisting and trolley speed will lead to an overall increase in productivity and efficiency.

Installation of the crane was a mammoth task undertaken by a 16,00 metric- tonne capacity floating crane.

With six berths due for full completion in mid 2001, PTP has on order a total of 18 post and super post panamax quay cranes.

Other port equipment includes 58 rubber-tyred gantry cranes and a full complement of prime movers and trailers.

The release said that PTP, located just 30 minutes away from international shipping lanes is currently on stream to begin commercial operations next January.