Ashdod Port is presently completing one of its more complex operational projects after extensive renovations on the western side of Platform 21. At the end of the process, grain ships will be able to unload on the western side of the platform, according to a statement.
This is part of a significant strategic process, involving an investment of US$156 million in preparation for the upcoming competition to deepen the platform, with the western side reaching a depth of 16 meters so that large grain ships be able to dock there.
The Platform 21 upgrade project also includes the deepening of the eastern side to about 17.5 meters and its reinforcement so that it can support cranes weighing 130 tons.
The total length of Platform 21 is 850 meters, allowing large container ships, with a length of about 400 meters and a capacity of 18,000 containers to dock at the port.
“Over the last week, we have been engaged in a complex logistical process to return two ship unloaders and two general cargo cranes to Platform 21,” said a port official. This involved operational and technological collaboration between Ashdod Port and the manufacturers and subcontractors.
The unloaders weigh about 250 tons each and the cranes’ weight is about 450 tons each. The machinery is moved using specially designed carts that are remotely operated with no personnel in the area, which required meticulous planning of short breaks in the port’s operations.
Once the equipment is transferred, the Israeli port intends to begin unloading grain ships on the western side of the upgraded Platform 21.
“Ashdod Port’s signature engineering project will upgrade the largest platform at the port and will this allow us to provide better service to the grain ships,” stated Shiko Zana, CEO of Ashdod Port.
“Upgrading Platform 21 is a big step forward, which will serve as a significant operational growth engine, as the Port Company prepares for the opening of competition with the new ports in the coming months,” added Zana.
