In order to increase the capacity of Klaipėda Seaport, the Lithuanian Ministry of Transport and Communications will allocate an additional EUR 10 million for dredging on the Port’s external and internal navigation channels.
Once the project is implemented, the depth of the external channel of Klaipėda Seaport will be 16m (currently 15.5m), while the depth of the internal navigation channel will be 15.5m.
“In the context of the current geopolitical challenges, it is extremely important to increase the competitiveness of Klaipėda Seaport and continue its expansion,” said Minister of Transport and Communications, Marius Skuodis.
“Our main priorities in the Port: dredging the Port’s navigation channel, expanding its territory in the southern part, developing a smart and environmentally friendly seaport. The dredging project of the Port’s channel is focused on the future, and in order to increase the Port’s competitiveness, we must be ready to receive vessels of the highest tonnage in Klaipėda.”
Dredging the navigation channel up to 15.5–16m is essential in order to increase the capacities of Klaipėda Seaport and enhance the security of maritime transport for larger vessels, as well as to increase the efficiency of the transport chain.
Once the depth of the navigation channel increases, the Port will be able to receive more fully loaded vessels, which will reduce cargo transportation time and air pollution.
The total value of this project is EUR 46.8 million. Financing from the EU structural funds constitutes around EUR 28 million, while the rest of the funds are provided by the Seaport Authority.
The maritime channel dredging works should be completed in the spring of 2023.