Port World reports that Sri Lanka's Hambantota port project is now expected to be partially ready for operation by November 2010, five months ahead of schedule.

The local port authority said port construction works are ahead of schedule with more than 50 per cent of the key wall, 40 per cent of excavation work and 100 per cent of the breakwater construction completed.

Port World said the first phase of the project consists of two general purpose berths, one bunkering berth and a small craft berth of 120m long.

The entire port project consists of four stages and is expected to be fully completed in 15 years following the 2007 start.

The project includes the construction of a sea port, an airport, highways, railways, an oil refinery and ancillary facilities, boosting the region's economy through increased trade and job creation.