Following the dredging of the Maputo Port access channel in 2016/2017 from -11 metres to -14.3 metres, the first maintenance dredging along the access channels will soon begin.
The dredging will focus on the Matola, Katembe, Polana, Xefina and Northern Channels and will remove about 1.4 million cubic metres. The drafts of the quays of the Maputo and Matola terminals will also be maintained.
This operation was awarded to Jan de Nul Dredging Ltd. through a public tender. Maintenance dredging is expected to start as early as October and last for a total of four months. Alongside this there are also rehabilitation works on quays 6, 7, 8 and 9, which are expected to end in the second quarter of 2020.
As with the deepening dredging two years ago, there will be permanent co-ordination between the dredger and the crew involved and the port operations to ensure the channel’s transitability. Dredging will not cause any disturbance to the normal course of port operations.
As has been a hallmark of the major works carried out at the Port of Maputo, a training component for young apprentices will be included in the project. Maintenance dredging will open the opportunity for engineering, marine and other students to follow all aspects of the operation and thereby enrich their curricula.
Source: MPDC