Volga–Caspian maritime canal reopens to shipping

The Volga–Caspian Maritime Shipping Canal has reopened to vessel traffic following a temporary suspension caused by difficult navigational conditions, Russia’s Federal Agency for Maritime and River Transport (Rosmorrechflot) said.

According to the agency, traffic has resumed on the 151–155 km section of the Volga–Caspian Maritime Shipping Canal (VKMSK), which was closed on June 19 due to excessive silt accumulation. Authorities said the sediment buildup was caused by spring flooding, strong currents, prevailing winds, and a drop in the Caspian Sea level, Caliber.Az reports.

The state operator FSUE Rosmorport is currently conducting emergency dredging operations in the affected area. Seven dredgers are working around the clock, supported by 26 auxiliary vessels and 147 personnel. Since the closure, more than 148,000 cubic metres of sediment have been removed, with two additional dredgers expected to join the operation soon.

The target is to restore the channel to its required maximum draught by July 2.

Rosmorrechflot added that the operation is being coordinated by an operational headquarters involving Rosmorport and port administrations across the Black Sea, Azov Sea, and Caspian Sea regions.

By Sabina Mammadli