Cabotage shipping companies operating the Santos–Manaus route are implementing strategies to minimize the impact of the expected drought in the Amazonas region.
Log-In Logística Integrada stated that it is monitoring water depth levels in the Amazon Basin on a daily basis. Due to the anticipated drought, some of the company’s clients have already begun shipping goods ahead of schedule and stocking them in advance. In a statement, the company noted that the floating pier operation used last year “proved to be a viable solution that meets market needs.”
Norcoast’s commercial director, Marcio Salmi, said the company is anticipating scenarios and implementing strategies based on lessons learned from the 2023 and 2024 droughts.
“Our strategy is multifaceted and aims at continuous adaptation to river conditions. We encourage advancing the flow of cargo during periods of higher availability and lower risk, taking advantage of more favorable river levels. Additionally, we have clear plans in place for adapting to reduced draft levels, which allow us to maintain the flow even when faced with depth limitations.”
Although weather forecasts suggest that this year’s drought may be less severe, Salmi emphasized the need for caution. He said Norcoast is maintaining a stance of maximum vigilance.
“Regardless of the projections, the valuable experience we’ve gained—especially with operational solutions we successfully validated in 2024—allows us to be even better prepared for any scenario. Our focus remains on ensuring the reliability and efficiency of our clients’ logistics operations in the Amazon, no matter the intensity of the drought.”
Aliança has also advised clients to ship goods in advance. The company said it has “well-structured logistics solutions and specialized teams to maintain regular service.”
Infrastructure works
In 2024, the National Department of Transport Infrastructure (Dnit) contracted the execution of the Annual Dredging and Waterway Maintenance Plan (Padma) and the Nautical Signaling Plan for the state of Amazonas.
According to Dnit, these plans aim to ensure navigability on strategic river transport routes, covering sections such as Manaus–Itacoatiara, Tabatinga–Benjamin Constant, Benjamin Constant–São Paulo de Olivença, and Coari–Codajás. The works are expected to begin by September and conclude in November or December.
Dnit is currently implementing the Madeira River Waterway Maintenance Plan, which complements dredging efforts by ensuring the ongoing maintenance of navigational infrastructure. The agency stated that this contributes directly to the safety and reliability of river transport in the region.
Services
Dnit also affirmed that the Madeira River Waterway Maintenance Plan (AM) complements dredging efforts. “Ensuring the necessary depth in key waterway sections not only secures vessel safety but also maintains the logistics flow of the Manaus Industrial Hub.”
Source: A Tribuna
