On Monday, a team of divers and experts from GEOCUBA's Marine Studies Enterprise commenced assessments at the access channel of Batabanó port, located in Mayabeque province. This effort aims to gauge the current depth and strategize a dredging plan following the sediment buildup caused by Hurricane Rafael's sweep across western Cuba.
Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila, Cuba's Minister of Transport, shared on Facebook that the collected data will be analyzed to expedite a dredging project in the sediment-affected zones. He emphasized that these operations are being conducted through close collaboration between the Marine Studies Enterprise, the Maritime Port Group (GEMAR), and the Maritime Services Enterprise (SERMAR), all under the oversight of the Cuban Maritime Administration and the Ministry of Transport.
Rodríguez also mentioned that efforts are underway to transport the necessary equipment to Batabanó to kick off the dredging process. These measures are critical to keeping the port functional and ensuring the logistical flow of goods to the Isle of Youth, a key supply hub for this insular region.
Resumption of Essential Supplies
Thanks to the joint efforts of GEMAR and the Municipal Defense Council of the Isle of Youth, loading operations to the island resumed last Saturday and have continued uninterrupted, ensuring the delivery of essential products and materials to its residents.
"We will keep you informed on this crucial matter for the country, especially for the inhabitants of the Isle of Youth," the minister emphasized. On Monday, Rodríguez announced on Facebook that the ferry Perseverancia completed its first journey between Nueva Gerona and Batabanó following Hurricane Rafael's impact.
Navigational Challenges and Solutions
He pointed out that it was necessary to restore the navigation aid system for the access channel, which had been damaged, and conduct comprehensive inspections of the docking area and access channel, involving specialized divers. Additionally, due to the scale of the meteorological event and the characteristics of the area, "an additional measure was implemented, docking the ferry with engines off and using tugboat assistance."
However, Rodríguez acknowledged challenges during both the arrival and departure at Batabanó, specifically at a certain point in the channel, which forced the suspension of the ferry service scheduled for Tuesday until further notice. This incident underscored the need for more in-depth measurements of the access channel. Over the next four days, precise bathymetric surveys will be conducted to assess sediment accumulation on the channel's floor and devise strategies to restore safe ferry navigation as swiftly as possible, with timely updates provided.
"All other cargo vessels operating on this route are experiencing no difficulties and will continue their voyages," he stated.