BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 9. Work on the third
Ro-Pax type ferry, being constructed at the Baku Shipyard by an
order placed by Azerbaijan Caspian Shipping Company (ASCO), a
company within the Azerbaijan Transport and Communications (AZCON)
Holding, is progressing according to schedule and nearing
completion, the statement of ASCO says, Trend reports.
Within the scope of the project, the assembly of blocks for the
main hull of the ship has been completed. Currently, pipelines are
being installed, and cables for the electrical systems are being
laid. Meanwhile, the installation of ventilation systems,
mechanical equipment, insulation of living areas, and cabin
partitioning are underway.
The project involves several innovations compared to previous
similar Ro-Pax ferries. These include the installation of a
three-ton crane for utility purposes, additional storage tanks for
the compressed air system, and the creation of an electrical power
supply system for refrigerated containers.
Additionally, a hazardous gas detection system and an extra fire
extinguisher for the foam fire suppression system will be installed
in the lower cargo compartment. The ferry will also feature an
automatic railway track crossing system and a braking system on the
cargo platform. In the main engine room, an additional cooling
system, two service hatches, and two service cranes will be
installed.
Furthermore, some technical solutions have been optimized
compared to previous vessels. For instance, the installation of a
passenger lift has been abandoned. The rear auxiliary steering
system has been removed, and the power of the front auxiliary
steering system has been increased from 350 kW to 545 kW.
Like the previously commissioned Azerbaijan and Zarifa Aliyeva
ferries, the new ferry will have a maximum speed of 14 knots, a
length of 154.5 meters, a width of 17.7 meters, and a height of 7.5
meters. In terms of cargo capacity, this ferry will also be able to
carry 100 passengers, 56 tank-type wagons, or 50 freight
vehicles/trucks simultaneously.
The new ferry is of particular importance for the modernization
of ASCO's fleet and for enhancing the country's transit potential.
Like other vessels, this Ro-Pax ferry is planned to be used for
cargo and passenger transportation over the Caspian Sea, as well as
in transport operations along the Middle Corridor.
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