AKTAU
- Latitude: 43.6005 •
- Longitude: 51.2287 •
- Caspian Sea •
- Port in Kazakhstan
Address: Aktau Mangystau Region Kazakhstan
Aktau (Port Aktau), Kazakhstan - Port Description and Specification
General Overview: Port Aktau, located on the eastern shore of the Caspian Sea in Kazakhstan, serves as the primary maritime gateway for the country. It is a crucial hub for the transit of goods to and from the Caspian region and connects Kazakhstan to international maritime routes, facilitating trade with Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. The port handles a diverse range of cargo, including crude oil, petroleum products, break-bulk, and containerized goods.
Location:
- Coordinates: Latitude 43.6520° N, Longitude 51.1975° E
- It is situated in the city of Aktau in the Mangystau Region of Kazakhstan.
Port Specifications:
Facilities and Infrastructure:
- Cargo Terminals: The port has multiple terminals dedicated to different types of cargo, including a dry cargo terminal, oil terminal, and a container terminal.
- Berths: The port comprises several berths, each specialized for handling specific types of cargo such as bulk, break-bulk, and liquids.
- Storage Areas: Adequate storage facilities, including open storage areas and warehouses, are available to accommodate various cargo needs.
- Equipment: The port is equipped with modern handling equipment including cranes, forklifts, and conveyance systems to ensure efficient cargo operations.
Capacity:
- Container Capacity: The port has dedicated container handling facilities with a container yard that supports a considerable number of Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs).
- Bulk Cargo Capacity: High-capacity terminals for handling bulk cargo including coal, grain, and other raw materials.
- Liquid Cargo Capacity: Specialized terminals and storage tanks for handling various liquid cargoes, primarily petroleum and its derivatives.
Draught and Penetration:
- Channel Depth: The approach channel has a sufficient depth to accommodate various vessel sizes, ensuring smooth navigation and berthing.
- Berth Depths: Depth ranges at berths typically vary but are maintained to cater to medium to large sized vessels.
Services:
- Pilotage: Pilotage services are provided to assist vessels in safely navigating the port's waters.
- Tug Services: Tug services are available for docking and undocking operations.
- Bunkering: The port offers bunkering services for vessels.
- Customs and Immigration: Comprehensive services are provided for the clearance of cargo and crew members.
- Maintenance and Repair: Facilities are available for the maintenance and repair of vessels.
Logistics and Connectivity:
- Rail Connectivity: The port has strong rail connections, facilitating the efficient movement of goods to and from the hinterland.
- Road Access: A network of roads connects the port to major highways, improving accessibility for truck transport.
- Intermodal Services: Integrated intermodal solutions are available, combining sea, rail, and road transport.
Environmental Considerations:
- The port operates under stringent environmental regulations to minimize pollution and preserve the marine ecosystem of the Caspian Sea.
- Waste management systems and oil spill response strategies are in place to handle any environmental contingencies.
Strategic Importance:
- Port Aktau plays a significant role in the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR), also known as the Middle Corridor, linking China and Europe through Kazakhstan, the Caspian Sea, and beyond.
- It serves as a critical node in Kazakhstan's ambitions to enhance its logistics and trade capabilities within the Belt and Road Initiative framework.
In summary, Port Aktau is a key maritime infrastructure asset for Kazakhstan, supporting a wide array of cargo types and offering robust connectivity options to both regional and international markets. The port's facilities, capabilities, and strategic significance make it an indispensable part of the country's trade and logistics network.