On January 17, L&T Kattupalli Port welcomed MOL's MV MOL Distinction, the first trial call by the Japanese line.

The vessel berthed at 1730 hours, exchanged 1,980 TEUs and sailed the next day at 1130 hours.

It may be recalled that the TCX service (consortium of NYK and Sea Consortium) has been calling at Kattupalli on a weekly basis since September 2013 and Maersk recently commenced a regular service from the port.

Importers and exporters with global supply chains have been showing interest in Kattupalli as it offers congestion-free and 24/7 accessible approach roads, with quick turnaround of trailers as the majority of the CFSs are in close proximity, highlighted a release.