The construction of a 1380-metre long jetty, with 25-metre deep foundations, in the port of Sohar is on schedule. From the first quarter of next year, the structure will have to accommodate the next generation of ‘Very Large Ore Carriers’ (400,000 dwt). The Port of Rotterdam Authority is sharing in the construction costs, by contributing € 25 million. The total costs of the jetty and related issues, such as dredging work, amount to US$ 200 million.
The jetty is being built by a 50/50 joint venture of the Italian company Saipem and Afcons of India. Van Oord is dredging the 18.5-metre deep access canal to a depth of 23 metres, and the jetty location itself to 25 metres.
Pellets
In May 2008, the Oman government, the Port of Rotterdam Authority and Vale, the largest iron ore concern in the world, concluded an agreement for the establishment of a $1.4 billion plant that will produce ore pellets for the region. In addition to this, Sohar must also become the distribution centre for iron ore from Brazil destined for the Middle East, India and Africa. Afterwards, the ‘Oman Shipping Company’ signed a contract with a Chinese shipyard for the construction of four of the world’s largest ships, to transport iron ore between Brazil and Sohar. The order is worth almost $500 million.
[mappress]
Source: portofrotterdam, September 20, 2010