Rail-mounted gantry cranes strengthen intermodal container operations

A new container terminal in India is being developed as a greenfield facility with integrated rail handling as a core yard operation. To establish the operational base, the terminal previously invested in 30 Konecranes Rubber-Tired Gantry (RTG) cranes in Q3 2025.

As rail transport becomes an increasingly important link between coastal ports and inland logistics hubs, the terminal required dedicated equipment to manage container flows between rail and yard storage areas.

Objectives: Efficient rail-yard integration and scalable capacity
The primary objectives of the RMG investment are to ensure efficient container loading and unloading of trains, synchronize rail operations with yard stacking activities, and maintain high handling accuracy and safety. The operator also aimed to create a scalable equipment setup that supports future growth in container volumes.

Technical solution: Konecranes Rail-Mounted Gantry cranes
The operator ordered two Konecranes RMG cranes, with the order booked in Q4 2025 and commissioning scheduled by the end of Q2 2027. The RMGs will be deployed at the rail interface to manage train operations connecting the terminal’s coastal location with inland regions.

Each crane will be equipped with a twin-lift spreader and a rotating trolley, enabling precise container alignment during rail handling. Active Load Control (ALC) technology will minimize container sway, improving placement accuracy and enhancing operational safety.

Integrated yard and rail operations
The RMGs will operate in coordination with the existing RTG fleet, ensuring a balanced flow of containers between rail and yard stacks. This integrated equipment strategy is designed to optimize throughput, reduce handling time and maintain consistent productivity across terminal operations.

Deployment timeline and partnership
The RMG project follows the earlier RTG deployment and reflects a phased approach to terminal equipment development. According to Konecranes, the customer is building a comprehensive equipment configuration that supports efficient operations at the rail-yard interface, relying on Konecranes technology and engineering expertise.

Conclusion
By investing in RMG cranes to complement its RTG fleet, the Indian terminal operator is establishing an integrated intermodal handling system for its greenfield facility. The solution supports accurate, safe and synchronized rail and yard operations, providing a foundation for scalable container throughput and long-term terminal growth.

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