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Nov 03, 2009
AIS for Antwerp barge traffic
Antwerp Port Authority is to make the use of its Automatic Identification System (AIS) compulsory for barges as of March 2011. The introduction of AIS will benefit nautical safety in general and vessel traffic control in particular.
The system will also be very useful in making even better use of infrastructure, ensuring more efficient berth management and improving the operation of locks. The compulsory introduction of AIS will additionally result in improvements to the Barge Traffic System and lead to more efficient freight handling. In the longer term, the data generated by AIS will give a picture of emissions by barges, and will make it possible for traffic flows to be managed proactively by a barge coordination centre.
Traffic flows Each vessel fitted with an AIS set sends out information at periodic intervals. In addition to fixed data such as the name and dimensions of the vessel, this includes variable data such as position, course, draught, load and destination. These messages can be received and read by other waterway users, and will be used by the Port Authority's services to manage barge traffic flows more efficiently and safely, as is currently done with the AIS data from seagoing ships. This measure forms part of the “Barge Master Plan,” which aims to position barge transport better within the overall flow of freight, both commercially and in terms of infrastructure.
 
Intermodal transportation: The next wave?
 Holidays are almost over, for those lucky enough to go on vacation. I spent my time away from the sea, and well above sea level. Just for reassurance. As you might know, the majority of Dutch grounds are below sea level (about 65%), and we keep dry feet by pumping water. Without that, we would build our sandcastle around "Amersfoort at the Sea" (a city some 80km inland).
However, spending time in the Alps, some 800m above sea level, my rectangular box driven mind did not come to a complete standstill, wondering about hinterland transportation.
New Strategy & Development Director appointed at Dunkerque Port
 Jean-Frédéric Laurent has just been appointed Strategy and Development Director of Dunkerque Port, replacing Pierre Joly on his retirement. He is 41. |
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