Easing Navigation Risks: Goslar shipwreck removal set to begin in 2024

If everything goes according to plan, the Ministry of Public Works (OW) will commence the removal of the Goslar in the third quarter of 2024. This ship, which has been resting at the bottom of the Suriname River for years and serves as an iconic landmark, unfortunately poses a danger to navigation. If no action is taken, there is a possibility that the shipping channel could be blocked.

Engineer Kees Boender, involved in several major projects of the ministry, states that the Goslar is drifting towards the eastern shipping channel. The Maritime Authority of Suriname (MAS) has confirmed that the wreck should be cleared to prevent disruptions to navigation.

During a ministry press conference for the presentation of the 2023 annual report, Boender mentioned that the ministry aims to avoid a situation where freight traffic to our country’s port is compromised. A bidding process was conducted, with four companies submitting bids: Multra Ship Salvage, Kuldipsingh with Hano and Marin Masters, GAC/Integra, and Koole Contractors.

The latter company submitted the lowest bid, amounting to US$ 5.6 million. Although the costs are not included in the 2024 budget, discussions are ongoing with Koole Contractors regarding a financial proposal. If the financial proposal is approved, the work will commence in the third quarter of 2024 and last until the first quarter of 2025. Prior to the commencement of the work, an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) must be conducted.

In addition to this major project, the Ministry of OW has other significant projects in the pipeline. One of them is the construction of a second bridge over the Suriname River. A preliminary study must be conducted to carefully evaluate alternatives and determine the best location for the bridge, according to Boender. The pre-study should provide clarity on the financial and technical feasibility. Requests for pre-studies are already prepared.

Boender expects significant local content involvement when this project is executed, potentially leading to increased activity on the Suriname River. The continuation of the Dredging Project is also under consideration to increase depth from 5.5 to 6.5 meters.

The necessity and benefits will be thoroughly examined, Boender states. The current investigation is being put out for tender. If it is deemed necessary and the project receives approval, implementation will take place in 2028.

Date: 28 December 2023

Categories:  Ease of Doing Business, Government, Suriname, Transport 

Tags:  Cheryl White, Cultural Heritage, Environmental Responsibility, Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), Goslar, Government Suriname, Heritage Protection, Historical Artifacts, Historical Preservation, Koole Contractors, Maritime, Maritime Archaeology, Paramaribo, Surinam River