Oman’s Port of Duqm, anchoring the giant Special Economic Zone (SEZ) at Duqm on its Wusta coast, plans to establish a dedicated terminal for roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) cargo at its commercial quay, said a report.

The move will highlight Duqm’s potential as a hub for automotive-related activities and Ro-Ro transhipment, added the Oman Daily Observer report.

Capt Wim Aerbelien, harbour master and chief pilot of Port of Duqm Company, said that a Ro-Ro terminal has now been envisioned as part of the port’s 2.2 km-long commercial quay. It will be located between the multipurpose terminal and a pair of container terminals planned at the port.

Roll-on/roll-off cargo comprises essentially wheeled cargo, such as automobiles, trucks, trailers and other platform vehicles that can be discharged from suitably designed roll-on/roll-off ships, it said.

The dedicated facility is being created keeping in mind, among other objectives, the SEZ’s vision to host a major auto manufacturing industry in Duqm. A Ro-Ro Terminal will also be potentially helpful in the discharge of huge over-dimensioned project equipment that are shipped on platform vehicles, such as self-propelled modular transporters.