12 Introducing Geographical Zones in the Mekong River and related Technical and Operational Requirements for Tankers

Objective• To assess, identify, define and approve the different Zones

along the Mekong and ensure that the Technical and Operational Requirements for Tankers using these Zones are met.

Project type and durationNational with Cross-border Impact2 years

1

12 Introducing Geographical Zones in the Mekong River and related Technical and Operational Requirements for Tankers

Justification• The Risk Analysis concluded that some waterway sections

deemed unsuitable for transport of dangerous goods due to strong currents, rocky outcrops and difficult navigation and therefore recommended to be subject to limitations.

• The risks of sinking, capsizing or break-up, and the subsequent leaking of petroleum products or chemicals, can be catastrophic.

• Three major causes of accidents that should concern waterway users and authorities when making decisions are the following: (i) mistakes due to shipboard conditions, (ii) collisions, and (iii) weather / river condition induced accidents.

2

12 Introducing Geographical Zones in the Mekong River and related Technical and Operational Requirements for TankersOutputs1. Desk Study and in-depth analysis.2. The different Zones in the Mekong River System are

assessed, identified and defined.3. Risk mitigating measures for operational use by tankers on

the Mekong River System are identified.4. The National Technical and Operational Standards and

Regulations which have been prepared under Project 1 - Mekong Tanker Safety Management, and Project 2 - Minimum Standards for Vessel Design, Construction and Equipment, are adjusted to incorporate the Zone Requirements.

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Outputs (Cont.)5. The adjustments in the National Technical and Operational Standards

and Regulations are harmonised with neighbouring countries through bilateral discussions with assistance by MRC.

6. The Geographical Zones in the Mekong River System and related Technical and Operational Requirements for Tankers are approved.

7. Guidelines for the operators of the tankers so that they can sail in the required Zone are prepared.

8. The National Regulations and Guidelines are incorporated in the training curricula and training carried out.

9. Awareness campaigns for vessel/tanker operators and shipping lines prepared and carried out.

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12 Introducing Geographical Zones in the Mekong River and related Technical and Operational Requirements for Tankers

KEY ACTIVITIES

• In-depth analysis of the Waterway Assessment carried out by the Risk Analysis.

• Identify and define the different Zones in the Mekong River• Adjust the National Technical and Operational Standards and Regulations as

prepared under Project 1 and 2 • Harmonise the National Technical and Operational Standards and Regulations

between the countries• Prepare detailed national guidelines for the use and enforcement of the

national Regulations• Disseminates the Guidelines to relevant stakeholders • Carry out training for relevant stakeholders

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12 Introducing Geographical Zones in the Mekong River and related Technical and Operational Requirements for Tankers

12 Introducing Geographical Zones in the Mekong River and related Technical and Operational Requirements for Tankers

BudgetPer country: 370 – 470,000 USDTotal all four countries: 1,645,000 US$

Implementing AgencyThailand: Marine Department, MOTLao PDR: Department of Waterways, MPWTCambodia: Inland Waterway Transport Department, MPWTViet Nam: The Viet Nam Inland Waterway Administration, VIWA

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Tank Farm

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Thank you for your kind attention