container vessels have been designed to only carry
containers and therefore cannot load or unload their
cargoes using ships’ gear. This meant that SLASPA, as a
facilitator of trade, had to upgrade its cargo handling
facilities in order meet the demands of shipping lines and
thus provide a more effective and efficient service to port
users.
This led to the introduction of cranes and top handlers at
Port Castries. The first was the Pan Atlantic Shore Crane,
which arrived in the early 1990s, complemented by two
Kalmar top handlers. SLASPA upgraded its fleet in May and
September of 2000 and in November of 2007. These top
handlers led to significant changes in cargo operations, to
include improved quality of service to shipping lines,
truckers and consignees, decreased cargo handling cost
and the overall modernisation of Port Castries.
Development of cargo operations not only included
equipment but also led to the upgrade of the berths in
order to accommodate larger container ships, while
making navigational improvements for the smooth entry
and exit of ships. In tandem with that development, came
the upgrade of Unitrack and the computerisation of
operating systems. Unitrack enables the smooth layout
and tracking of all cargo entering and exiting the Port. The
Container Park and Cargo Shed have been upgraded to
feature a redesigned terminal layout, a reconfigured Cargo
Shed and a new warehouse management system which
allows for quicker retrieval of stored cargo.
With increases in traffic at the port, management made
the strategic decision to move bananas and transhipment
operations to Port Vieux Fort, thereby reducing congestion
at Port Castries and improving efficiency of operations.
SLASPA continues to seek ways to enhance its operations
whether it is the modernisation of its fleet or changes to
systems to improve its service to all its customers.
n
HANDBOOK & PORT DIRECTORY 2013/2015
Port Castries Cargo
17
SLASPA continues to seek ways to
enhance its operations whether it is
the modernisation of its fleet or
changes to systems to improve its
service to all its customers.
SAINT LUCIA AIR AND SEA PORTS AUTHORITY
