PUERTO BOLIVAR

• COPBO
• Latitude: 12.2547
• Longitude: -71.96
• North Coast South America
• Port in Colombia

Location: La Guajira La Guajira Colombia

Puerto Bolívar in Colombia: Marine Port Description and Specifications

Location: Puerto Bolívar is situated in La Guajira Department on Colombia's northern Caribbean coast. It’s one of the key gateways for the country's maritime trade, especially for coal export. Geographical coordinates for Puerto Bolívar are approximately 12.21°N latitude and 71.98°W longitude.

Ownership and Management: The port is operated by Cerrejón, a joint venture between BHP Group, Anglo American, and Glencore, which manage its operations primarily for coal export.

Facilities and Infrastructure:

1. Berths and Docking:

   • Coal Terminal: The port primarily consists of a specialized coal terminal designed to handle large bulk carriers.
   • Loading Facility: There are facilities for the direct loading of coal from the departure point to the ship holds using conveyer belt systems.

2. Depth and Draft:

   • Channel Draft: Approximately 21 meters (68.9 feet) allowing the accommodation of Capesize vessels.
   • Alongside Depth: Around 18.5 meters (60.7 feet) at the berths, capable of handling very large bulk commodities.

3. Storage and Handling:

   • Stockpiles: Extensive ground stockpile areas for coal storage with conveyor belt systems facilitating efficient movement to the loading cranes.
   • Loading Capacity: High-capacity loading systems designed to minimize ship turnaround times and maximize efficiency.

4. Equipment:

   • Modern ship loaders capable of precisely loading coal at high rates.
   • Conveyor systems with dust control measures to minimize environmental impact.
   • Auxiliary tugs and pilot services for safe maneuvering of large vessels.

Operations:

• Principal Export: The primary function of Puerto Bolívar is the export of coal sourced from the Cerrejón mine, one of the largest open-pit coal mines in the world.
• Throughput: The port's throughput can reach tens of millions of tons annually, reflecting its status as one of the world's significant coal export terminals.
• Service Availability: The port operates continuously to manage the logistical flow of coal shipments efficiently.

Environmental and Regulatory Compliance:

• The port adheres to strict environmental regulations to mitigate the impact of coal dust and other potential pollutants.
• Various systems and processes in place aimed at achieving sustainable and responsible operations, including pollution control measures and best practices for environmental management.

Access and Connectivity:

• Puerto Bolívar is connected to the coal mine and inland regions via a dedicated railway line, facilitating efficient transport of coal to the terminal.
• Road infrastructure in the region supports ancillary services and personnel transport.

Security:

• High levels of security are maintained in compliance with international standards. The port implements stringent access controls, surveillance, and maritime security measures to ensure safe operation.

Future Developments: Plans may include expanding facilities and infrastructure to accommodate increasing export volumes and potentially diversify the types of cargo handled.

Puerto Bolívar remains a strategic asset for Colombia’s export economy, particularly in the energy sector, and continues to play a crucial role in the international coal market.