MINAMATA

• JPMIN
• Latitude: 32.1899
• Longitude: 130.377
• Japan Coast
• Port in Japan

Location: Minamata Kumamoto Prefecture Japan

Minamata is a port city located in Kumamoto Prefecture on Kyushu Island, Japan. It is situated on the western coast of the island, facing the Yatsushiro Sea. Although Minamata is more famously known for historical environmental issues related to industrial pollution, the city's port plays an important role in local and regional maritime activities. Here is a detailed description and specifications of Minamata Port.

General Information

• Location: Minamata, Kumamoto Prefecture, Kyushu Island, Japan
• Coordinates: Approximately 32.2167° N latitude, 130.4000° E longitude
• Body of Water: Yatsushiro Sea, which connects to the East China Sea

Port Specifications

1. Port Classification: Minor port
2. Primary Functions: The port primarily serves local fishing, passenger ferries, and small-scale cargo handling.
3. Berthing Facilities:
   • Berths: Multiple small berths suitable for fishing boats, ferries, and small cargo vessels.
   • Draught: The port can accommodate vessels with a draught of up to 6 meters. This limitation is due to the relatively shallow waters in the bay area.
   • Quay Length: The total quay length is modest, catering more to local traffic rather than large commercial ships.
4. Port Services:
   • Cargo Handling: Facilities for the handling of general cargo, such as fishing products, small consignments of commercial goods, and local merchandise.
   • Passenger Services: The port has passenger ferry services connecting with nearby islands and coastal regions.
   • Fishing Industry Support: Facilities dedicated to supporting the local fishing industry, including refrigerated storage and fish processing warehouses.
5. Infrastructure:
   • Storage: Limited warehousing is available, primarily designed for local use rather than international trade.
   • Transport Links: Roads connect the port to Minamata city and the wider region, including major highways for trucking.
   • Utilities: Basic port utilities including water, electricity, and fuel supply for vessels.
6. Navigation:
   • Tidal Information: The port experiences moderate tides, which need to be considered for navigation and docking.
   • Pilotage: Pilot services are available but are generally recommended only for larger vessels or those unfamiliar with local waters.
   • Navigational Aids: Markers and lighted buoys assist in the safe navigation of vessels into and out of the port.

Environmental Considerations

Historically, Minamata is known for the Minamata Disease incident caused by industrial pollution from the Chisso Corporation. Significant efforts have been made to remediate and prevent pollution, and strict environmental regulations are now in place to ensure the port and surrounding areas remain protected.

Economic and Social Impact

While not a major international hub, the port of Minamata supports the local economy by facilitating the fishing industry, providing employment, and ensuring connectivity for residents and goods.

Future Development

Potential for expansion exists mainly in enhancing local facilities rather than large-scale international trade. Plans could involve improving infrastructure to support tourism, the fishing industry, and local commerce.

Conclusion

Minamata Port is a vital resource for its local community, playing a significant role in economic activities, particularly concerning the fishing industry and local transport. Its operations are aligned with environmental conservation efforts owing to its historical backdrop, ensuring sustainable use for future generations.