Egypt begins widening of the southern section of the Suez Canal

18-05-2021

The Egyptian Suez Canal Authority issued a statement on the 15th that the southern section of the Suez Canal has begun dredging operations to widen this section of the waterway and enable it to have two-way navigation capabilities.

　　Usama Rabie, chairman of the Suez Canal Authority, said in a statement that the plan for widening the southern section of the Suez Canal will be carried out in phases. The completion of the plan will help shorten the time required for ships to pass through the canal, improve navigation efficiency, and enhance navigation safety.

On the 11th of this month, Egyptian President Sisi approved the plan for widening the southern section of the Suez Canal. The plan mainly covers about 30 kilometers of the Suez Canal from Suez to the Great Bitter Lake. Deepen from about 20 meters to about 22 meters. The plan is expected to be completed within two years.

　　 The heavy freighter "Longci" flying the Panamanian flag ran aground on the new channel of the Suez Canal on March 23, causing a blockage of the channel. After several consecutive days of rescue, the stranded freighter successfully lifted off on March 29. In April, the first large cutter suction dredger purchased by the Suez Canal Authority was delivered to widen the channel of the southern section of the canal.