ASTARA
- Latitude: 38.4061 •
- Longitude: 48.882 •
- Caspian Sea •
- Port in Iran
Address: Astara Gilan Iran
Web-site: http://www.astaraport.ir
Astara is a notable port located in the Gilan Province of Iran, near the border with Azerbaijan. This port is part of Iran's maritime infrastructure and serves as a critical node for trade in the Caspian Sea region. Below are detailed descriptions and specifications for the Port of Astara:
Port Description:
Name: Port of Astara
Country: Iran
Province: Gilan
Geographic Position:
- Latitude: 38.3872° N
- Longitude: 48.8622° E
Location Details:
- Astara is situated in the northern part of Iran on the southwestern coast of the Caspian Sea.
- The port is close to the border with Azerbaijan, fostering cross-border trade and economic activities.
- It serves as an essential gateway for trade between Iran and neighboring countries in the Caspian region.
Type of Port:
- Astara is primarily a commercial port but also handles passengers.
Port Specifications:
Facilities:
- Berths: Multiple berths for handling a variety of cargo types including general cargo, bulk, and containerized goods.
- Warehouses: Storage facilities for various types of goods.
- Customs and Immigration: Equipped with customs and border control facilities to handle international trade and passenger movement.
Cargo Handling:
- Primary Cargo Types: General cargo, containers, bulk goods (such as grains and metals), and break-bulk.
- Handling Equipment: Cranes, forklifts, and other cargo handling equipment to facilitate efficient loading and unloading of ships.
Navigation:
- Entrance Channel: Dredged to accommodate medium-sized vessels.
- Tide and Current Information: Marinas and ship operators need to be aware of tidal and current conditions which can affect navigation.
Connectivity:
- Road: Well-connected by road to major cities in Iran, facilitating the inland transport of goods.
- Rail: Connected to Iran's railway network, enhancing the throughput of cargo to and from the hinterland.
- Near Border Proximity: Close proximity to Azerbaijan allows for efficient cross-border rail and road transport.
Services:
- Pilotage: Available to assist vessels in navigating through the port’s waters.
- Towing: Towing services are available for maneuvering larger vessels.
- Bunkering: Provisioning of fuel and other supplies for visiting ships.
- Maintenance and Repair: Basic facilities available for ship repair and maintenance.
Regional Significance:
- Trade Relations: Acts as a critical hub for Iranian trade with the Caspian Sea countries, including Russia, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Azerbaijan.
- Economic Impact: Supports local economies through employment, trade, and related services, contributing to regional economic development.
Security and Regulation:
Port Authority: Governing body responsible for the administration and regulation of the port facilities. Safety Protocols: Adherence to international maritime safety and security standards. Customs Regulations: Stringent customs regulations in place for import and export, ensuring compliance with national and international trade laws.
Development and Expansion:
Recent Developments:
- Upgrades to port infrastructure.
- Expansion programs to increase cargo handling capacity.
Future Plans:
- Enhancements aimed at improving logistical efficiency.
- Potential expansion of warehousing and berthing capabilities to accommodate more and larger vessels.
Environmental Considerations:
- Sustainability Initiatives: Measures in place to minimize environmental impact, including waste management and pollution control.
- Compliance: Adherence to environmental regulations and standards to protect the Caspian Sea ecosystem.
Contact Information:
Port Authority Contact:
- Essential for detailed inquiries, operational details, and specific navigational information.
The Port of Astara plays a vital role in augmenting Iran’s maritime trade capabilities, providing essential services and facilities to support the regional and international trade network.