- Simonsen’s study highlights persistent low water levels in 2024 that disrupted navigation in the Paraná River.
- Analysis identifies high-risk stretches where the majority of vessel groundings occur, with incidents concentrated at specific kilometers.
- Recommendations include daily draft checks, strict under keel clearance, and close Master–Pilot coordination.
- A structured response plan—assessment, engagement, execution—is advised if a grounding takes place.
Simonsen has published an in-depth study on navigation challenges along the Paraná River, identifying high-risk stretches where vessel groundings occur most frequently and offering practical recommendations for safer passage. The analysis also highlights how persistently low water levels in 2024 disrupted transport and increased operational risks across the Hidrovía, reinforcing the need for close monitoring of critical sectors, as reported by Safety4Sea.
High-Risk Areas and Recommendations
The study pinpoints specific river stretches where incidents of vessels running aground are concentrated, underscoring the navigational complexity of the Paraná River. Between kilometers 161 and 167, five of seven incidents in the wider 50-kilometer zone were recorded, while kilometers 287 to 290 accounted for eight of eleven cases. A particularly hazardous section lies between kilometers 338 and 344, where 20 of the 38 reported groundings occurred—seven of them concentrated at kilometer 343 alone. Similar risks are evident between kilometers 406 and 411, where over half of the 18 incidents happened, and in the final sector analyzed, where all 10 groundings were confined to kilometers 452 to 464.
To mitigate risks, Simonsen advises vessel operators to closely monitor dangerous areas, verify permissible sailing drafts daily, maintain safe under keel clearance, and ensure thorough coordination between Master and Pilot during pilotage. The use of navigational aids such as ECDIS, radar, and echo sounders is also emphasized. In the event of a grounding, Simonsen stresses a structured approach of assessment, engagement, and execution, while cautioning against premature tug deployment without expert evaluation.
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Source: Safety4Sea
