HASSELT

• BEHSS
• Latitude: 50.9333
• Longitude: 5.33333
• Inland, Europe
• Port in Belgium

Location: Hasselt Limburg Belgium

Marine Port Description and Specification: Hasselt, Belgium

General Overview: Hasselt is a city in the Limburg province of northeastern Belgium. Although Hasselt is primarily known for its cultural richness and as an administrative center, it also has significance in terms of inland waterways. The port of Hasselt is part of the extensive network of waterways in Belgium, supporting regional economic activities by facilitating the transport of goods.

Geographical Location:

• Coordinates: Approximately 50.9311° N latitude, 5.3378° E longitude.
• Waterway Access: The Port of Hasselt is located on the Albert Canal, which connects the port to major inland waterways and other significant ports in Belgium and neighboring countries.

Port Infrastructure and Specifications:

1. Facilities:

   • Berths: The port has several quays and berthing facilities to accommodate various sizes of inland vessels.
   • Storage Areas: There are open storage areas and warehouses for the handling and temporary storage of goods.
   • Cargo Handling Equipment: The port is equipped with cranes, forklifts, and other cargo handling machinery suitable for different types of cargo, including bulk, break-bulk, and containerized goods.

2. Navigational Information:

   • Draft: The Albert Canal can accommodate vessels with a draft of up to 3.4 meters.
   • Lock Dimensions: Locks on the Albert Canal are generally 136 meters long and 16.5 meters wide, which sets the maximum dimensions for vessels using the canal.
   • Water Depth: The typical water depth in the canal is around 3.5 meters, which is crucial for navigation and operational planning.

3. Connectivity:

   • Road and Rail Links: The port is well-connected by road and rail networks, facilitating efficient transfer of goods to and from the port.
   • Proximity to Major Cities: Hasselt is relatively close to significant Belgian cities like Antwerp and Brussels, enhancing its role in the regional supply chain.

4. Types of Cargo Handled:

   • Bulk Cargo: Includes materials such as coal, sand, gravel, and agricultural products.
   • Containerized Goods: The port has facilities for container handling, although it is more prominent for bulk and break-bulk cargo.
   • Break-Bulk Cargo: Includes items that are loaded individually, such as machinery, steel, and lumber.

5. Services:

   • Logistics and Distribution: The port offers various logistics and distribution services, including freight forwarding, customs clearance, and supply chain management.
   • Bunkering and Ship Services: Basic services such as bunkering and maintenance support are available.

Environmental and Safety Measures:

• Pollution Control: The port adheres to national and international regulations concerning environmental protection, including waste management and pollution control.
• Safety Protocols: Ensuring safety through strict adherence to safety guidelines and protocols for handling hazardous materials and general port operations.

Economic Impact:

• Regional Economy: The port significantly contributes to the regional economy by providing jobs and supporting the local industry.
• Trade Facilitation: Enhances trade by ensuring efficient and cost-effective transportation of goods within Belgium and to neighboring countries.

Future Developments:

• There are plans for continuous improvements and expansions to enhance the port's capacity and efficiency, including upgrading infrastructure and adopting new technologies.

Conclusion: The port of Hasselt, while smaller compared to Belgium's major seaports, plays a vital role in regional logistics and trade through its well-developed infrastructure and strategic location on the Albert Canal.

For up-to-date information and specific operational details, it's recommended to contact the Port Authority of Hasselt or visit their official website.