Web Alert: New under keel clearance requirements for Parana River and River Plate

October has seen the occurrence of two groundings in the Parana River. The vessels, both bulkers, touched bottom 340km from San Pedro Port and 340km from San Nicolas (navigating up river) respectively. Members are advised to contact correspondents or local agents for the most accurate and up to date information.

New under keel clearance rules for the River Parana and River Plate, are due to come into force 60 calendar days from 26 September 2016, which was the ratification date of the new regulations issued by the Argentinian authorities.

In addition to the normal requirements for under keel clearance (0.6 metres for vessels the drafts which exceed 10.36m), extra under keel clearance requirements will also be required as follows:

• Parana River [Timbues/San Martin/San Lorenzo Ports - Parana de les Palmas River up to kilometre 57]

For vessels with a draft of between 10.37m and 10.49m an increase of three centrimetres per additional centimetre of draft. Vessels with drafts 10.50m or more, 10% of the static draft

• Parana de les Palmas River from Kilometre 57 up to Recalada Pilot Station

For vessels with drafts between 10.37m and 10.67m, an increase of 1.5 centimetres per additional centimetre of draft. Vessels with drafts equal or over 10.68 metres, 10% of the static draft.