Iraq Grand Al-Faw Port is almost ready for full operations. The project is reaching its final stages.
The General Company for Ports of Iraq confirmed steady progress. Leaders are now preparing to select a global operator.
Farhan Al-Fartousi, Director General, said eleven global companies want the contract. Each company is ready to manage and develop the port’s superstructure.
He explained that technical and commercial qualifications will guide the selection process. The company will choose the best operator soon.
Moreover, key parts of the port already function well. Workers finished five large berths and the main connecting road.
Iraq also focuses on boosting navigation safety at Iraq Grand Al-Faw . Officials are adding advanced monitoring systems.
The International Maritime Organization works with Iraq on this project. Together, they design safer navigation routes for the port.
An Italian firm collaborates closely with the IMO. They review every technical aspect of the navigation channel.
Officials expect another visit from IMO experts later this year. They plan to review the navigation plans further.
Iraq Grand Al-Faw Port will also gain new safety tools. Workers will install modern buoys and high-tech sensors soon.
These tools will help ships sail smoothly in fog and humidity. The lights will guide vessels like airport runways do for planes.
Officials will place buoys every 1.5 to 2 nautical miles. This spacing improves safety more than other Iraqi ports.
With these updates, ships can enter the port more safely. The system will also reduce accidents and delays.
Two offshore platforms will monitor sea conditions. These platforms will track wind, waves, and tides every day.
These steps will ensure smooth sailing for incoming and outgoing ships.
Iraq Grand Al-Faw Port already handles large ships with drafts up to 16.4 meters. This shows its strong capacity.
Planners also designed the port for future growth. It can easily handle even larger ships later.
Thus, Iraq will soon increase its trade and shipping strength through Iraq Grand Al-Faw Port.