Maximum Dimensions of Pusher Convoys

Regulation SNAV, NA9 No. 34/16 (the “Regulation”) restored the maximum dimensions of pusher convoys, whichever their flags, to 290 meters of length and 50 meters of beam (width), for navigation along the full sections of the River Paraná Guazú, River Paraná and Pasaje Talavera (“Sections”). The Sections are part of the Paraguay-Paraná Waterway (Cáceres Port-Nueva Palmira Port) (the “Waterway”).

The Regulation was issued by the Argentine Coastguard (“PNA” after its acronym in Spanish) as the maritime authority in charge of regulating the navigation in Argentine jurisdictional waters. It was published on November 7, 2016, the date as from which it is effective for a period of 180 days. After that expiration it will be ratified or rectified according to the result of further studies and experience acquired.

The new Regulation extended the existing limits of 236 meters in length and 50 meters in beam that had been established for these Sections by Regulation RPOL 008 No. 01/2013 dated November 5, 2013, after having carried out tests in a simulator at the Center for Research and Maritime and Fluvial Training (CIEMF) which demonstrated the feasibility of increasing the measurements of convoys.

Within the scope of the Waterway, Rule No. 7 dated June 19, 1996, named “Unique System of Maximum Dimensions of Convoys of the Waterway”, is applicable, which is part of the regulatory body of the Agreement on Fluvial Transportation through the Paraguay-Paraná Waterway, ratified in 1994 by Law No. 24,385. Article 2.1.1 of Rule No. 7 sets a maximum dimension, equal to that of the new Regulation, of 290 meters in length and 50 meters in beam, applicable to the convoys equipped with radar for navigation through channels to the mouths of the River Paraná Guazú-Sauce-Paraná Bravo, up to kilometer 458 of the Paraná River.

On the other hand, to keep up the good governance and navigability of pusher convoys, the Regulation established a power of reference. For the respective calculation, it sets 70% as the maximum of the horse power indicated on the statutory Certificate and a ratio of 0.12 HP per transported ton.

In addition, in the recitals of the Regulation reference is made to the satisfactory result of a test made by the maritime authority where a total cargo of 24,743 tons was transported downriver as far as Nueva Palmira Port, in a convoy with a total dimension of 288.03 meters of length and 42.84 meters of beam.