Antwerp, Belgium – In a bid to ensure smooth maritime traffic flow during the ongoing Oosterweel construction works, vessel guidance and passage planning are set to commence on May 13, 2024, along the Albert Canal and the America Dock. These measures aim to guarantee both efficiency and safety amid the infrastructural transformations.
The Oosterweel project, a significant endeavor in completing the Antwerp Ring Road, is marking pivotal milestones. Among the most noteworthy developments within this extensive infrastructure project, which has been in progress for some time, is the construction of a new highway tunnel beneath the Scheldt River. This tunnel will link up with the new Oosterweel junction at the North Castle and, through the Canal Tunnels beneath the Albert Canal, connect to the Ring.
The forthcoming activities in the waterways of the Albert Canal and the America Dock herald potential disruptions to maritime traffic. Lantis, the project’s implementing agency, will establish a construction pit from the America Dock to the southern side of the Albert Canal. These works will reduce the available width of the Albert Canal by half.
To ensure the safety of vessel navigation in the remaining waterway section, the Port of Antwerp-Bruges is orchestrating Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) guidance and passage planning. Passage planning, facilitating one-way traffic through the construction zone, is slated to commence on May 13. A dedicated passage planner, operational 24/7, will manage vessel traffic using traffic lights mounted on communication towers. All ships intending to traverse the construction zone must register via APICS Barge, VHF 10, or phone through VTS.
The implementation of VTS guidance began on April 15 in the Weel sector, effectively preparing for the upcoming passage planning phase.
Once construction commences and passage planning is active, the city port will remain accessible via the Asia Dock. However, the Siberia Bridge will only be operational while physically accessible. The Asia Dock will experience temporary closure during the construction of a makeshift bridge, with the Siberia Bridge serving as an alternative route to access the city port during this period.
The Oosterweel project’s initiation of vessel guidance and passage planning underscores its commitment to mitigating disruptions to maritime activities while advancing essential infrastructural developments. As vessels navigate through these waters, collaboration and adherence to the prescribed protocols will be crucial for ensuring both safety and operational efficiency.
