Tracing the Waterways: Yangluo Port’s Transformation into an International Shipping Center
Heading: A Gateway to Europe and Asia
Inland ports, like Yangluo Port, serve as crucial hubs for the transportation of goods via water and rail. These goods travel westward, traversing Central Asia and Europe. This historical trade route, connecting Europe and Asia by land, has regained its vitality in recent years. On June 16, the “Strive for China’s Great River Surging” publicity and reporting group visited Wuhan Xinzhou to witness the progress of Yangluo Port as an international port and its contribution to the development of a shipping center in the middle reaches of the Yangtze River.
Heading: Yangluo Port: A Natural Haven
Situated on the north bank of the Yangtze River’s inflection point at Tianxingzhou, Wuhan, lies Yangluo in Xinzhou. This strategic location has made Yangluo Port one of the few natural ports in the middle reaches of the Yangtze River. In ancient times, military strategists recognized the importance of this area, as it provided a favorable position for controlling the river. Today, Yangluo Port stands as a testament to the region’s rich history and its potential for economic growth.
Heading: A Remarkable Transformation
Over the years, Yangluo Port has undergone a remarkable transformation, achieving significant milestones. In 2022, the port’s annual container throughput exceeded 2 million TEUs, marking a significant milestone after surpassing 1 million TEUs in 2014. What was once a small fishing village, with overgrown weeds on its shores, has now become a bustling port. Gantry cranes gracefully maneuver containers, while trucks shuttle goods to and from the port. Yangluo Port has become a vital hub, connecting goods from all directions and facilitating their transportation across the ocean and inland.
Heading: Embracing Technology for Efficiency
The implementation of advanced technology has played a crucial role in Yangluo Port’s development. The introduction of remote control gantry cranes has revolutionized operations. Skilled operators now control these cranes from a central control room, eliminating the need for them to be physically present at great heights. This not only improves working conditions but also enhances safety by reducing the risks associated with fatigue.
Yangluo Port has also embraced the concept of a smart port. In 2022, it was selected as a pilot project for building a smart port in Hubei Province. The port has implemented intelligent gates that automatically identify truck and container numbers, enabling 24-hour unattended operations. The average time for vehicles to pass through the gate has been significantly reduced, improving overall efficiency.
Heading: A Green and Low-Carbon Port
Yangluo Port is committed to environmental sustainability. The port has established a green and low-carbon infrastructure, exemplified by its electric truck charging and swapping station. This station, located near the second phase engineering department of Yangluo Port, covers an area of 180 square meters and accommodates eight charging piles. It can charge up to eight batteries simultaneously, ensuring the continuous operation of 50 trucks. Annually, this initiative saves approximately 1.8 million liters of diesel, reduces carbon emissions by 4,700 tons, and achieves zero pollution and zero emissions in container transportation within the port area.
In October 2022, Hubei Port Group Co., Ltd. and State Grid Hubei Electric Power signed a development cooperation framework agreement to further promote port electrification, vehicle and ship electrification, and roof photovoltaic construction. This collaboration aims to build a green ecological terminal and serve as a model for other ports seeking to achieve a green and low-carbon transformation.
Conclusion:
Yangluo Port’s transformation into an international shipping center is a testament to its strategic location and commitment to innovation. Through the implementation of advanced technology and sustainable practices, the port has become a vital hub for trade and a model for other ports to follow. As Yangluo Port continues to forge ahead, it will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the future of global trade.
