Northport terminal operators are hoping the Malaysian government will revive a double-tracking railway project that would extend the port's reach.

This development comes after Northport officials raised concerns to the Malaysian government about the limited capacity of the existing single track railway, connecting the port terminal to the national grid, which restricts the speeds and lengths of trains.

These limitations were highlighted at a meeting of the Malaysian Logistics Council last month. A report by the Focus Group on Land Transport Services suggested that double tracking should be extended to link Northport to the national grid, and as part of a longer-term rail development strategy the report recommended that the government look into building a by-pass between Serendah and Port Klang, as well as Seremban and Port Klang, to meet growing demand for rail freight transportation.

"Double-tracking to Northport would expand handling capacity and help draw cargo from an extended hinterland, including the proposed Northern Development Corridor and Thailand," said Northport managing director and CEO Hassan Abdul Kader.

Mr. Hassan said double-tracking would provide shippers located in Malaysia's northern peninsula and southern Thailand with an option to reach global markets.

"There is no doubt that rail infrastructure should be developed to ensure that the port could provide sufficient linkages," said Mr. Hassan.

Northport is linked to 250 ports globally and possesses the strongest rail connections in Malaysia, a statement issued by authorities at Northport said.

Block train movements from Northport to various domestic inland container depots in the northern region and international destinations are expected to grow with the completion of the double-tracking railway line by 2012.