The Scheldt and the Antwerp docks are becoming increasingly congested, and the Port of Antwerp is trying to fix this.

The new service will ensure that shipping traffic is directed more efficiently. VTS also ensures an increase in port security and environmental safety.

VTS offers information and guidance on ship navigation as well as weather conditions, natural disasters, and other possible threats. The new VTS operators and traffic controllers are in charge of ensuring that shipping traffic behind the locks is safe and effective.

Seagoing vessels and inland navigation craft can travel more quickly thanks to the analysis and communication of this data.

Three sectors will keep an eye on the port. The Right Bank is divided into two sectors: Polder and City, with the Waasland sector on the Left Bank. - of these sectors has its own VHF channel for communicating with other road users. Vessel traffic will be controlled by a VTS operator until the new vessel traffic control system is operational.

The service will be launched in several stages. VTS will start with the Waasland sector at the docks on the Left Bank on March 1. The service is available Monday through Friday between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. The service will be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week starting on April 3rd.

Maritime Business World