Port of Santos advances in strategic work with removal of rocks in the navigation channel

The process of modernizing the infrastructure of the Port of Santos gained new momentum with the issuance of the Installation License granted by Ibama to carry out the demolition works in the navigation channel. The authorization allows the Santos Port Authority (APS) to begin the removal of three submerged rock formations that limit the progress of future works to deepen the channel.

The interventions are scheduled to take place between the months of July and October and are part of a set of investments aimed at increasing the operational efficiency of the largest port in Latin America. The services will be carried out at three strategic points in the estuary: Pedra do Barroso, close to Barnabé Island; Pedra do Itapema, in the Outeirinhos region; and Pedra do Teffé, close to the Concais passenger terminal.

According to APS, these rock formations represent natural obstacles that prevent the channel from being deepened through conventional dredging. The removal will allow future dredging campaigns to reach depths compatible with the growing demand for larger ships, a trend observed on the main international maritime trade routes.

Explosive-free technique reduces environmental impacts

One of the differences of the operation will be the use of the call cold collapsetechnology that does not require the use of explosives.

In this process, the rocks are mechanically fragmented using specific equipment, such as a trephine, and are subsequently removed by dredgers equipped with special claws. In addition to increasing operational safety, the method reduces vibrations, minimizes impacts on aquatic fauna and avoids more severe interruptions in port routine.

Before removing the rocks, approximately 12 thousand cubic meters of sediments accumulated at the bottom of the channel. This material will be destined for the Oceanic Disposal Polygon authorized by environmental agencies, while the rock fragments can be reused in public works, contributing to a more sustainable management of intervention waste.

Work prepares Port of Santos for new generation of ships

The deepening of the navigation channel is considered one of the main structural works for the future of the Port of Santos.

In recent years, the maritime industry has seen continuous growth in the size of container vessels, bulk carriers and general cargo ships. This evolution requires deeper and safer channels, capable of accommodating vessels with greater draft and greater transport capacity.

Experts point out that investments of this nature increase the competitiveness of the port complex, reduce operational restrictions and strengthen the position of the Port of Santos as the main gateway for Brazilian foreign trade.

Operation will have permanent monitoring

During the execution of the works, there may be occasional interruptions in vessel traffic in areas directly affected by the intervention. According to APS, all activities will be coordinated with maritime authorities and will follow strict navigation safety and environmental monitoring protocols.

The issuance of the environmental license represents another stage in the process of modernizing Brazilian port infrastructure. Combined with projects to deepen the channel, expand terminals and improve land access, the intervention seeks to prepare the Port of Santos to meet the growth in cargo movement in the coming decades, consolidating its position as the country’s main logistics hub.