The Port Authority of Las Palmas Begins Construction of Innovative Maritime Infrastructure

The Port Authority of Las Palmas has embarked on an ambitious project aimed at bolstering maritime operations in Fuerteventura. The project involves the construction of eight floating caissons that are part of the larger initiative named “Commercial Dock Breakwater at the Port of Puerto del Rosario.” This infrastructure is vital for enhancing the port’s shelter against northern swells while improving its overall functionality. Additionally, it will facilitate a new berth designated for the discharge of petroleum products, thereby optimizing the final stretch of the Commercial Dock for other uses.

The Maiden Caisson: Virgen de la Peña

The first of the caissons, aptly named “Virgen de la Peña,” has already been completed and is slated for launching this weekend. Following its launch, it will be positioned at the Port of Las Palmas, where it will remain temporarily until it is finally transported to its permanent location at the Port of Puerto del Rosario. This inaugural structure boasts impressive dimensions, measuring 36.05 meters in length, 19.55 meters in width, and 15.90 meters in height. Its smaller size compared to the other seven planned caissons is due to its placement at the future ro-ro ramp, primarily intended for roll-on/roll-off services.

Progressing Towards Completion

Once the initial caisson is successfully launched, the focus will shift to the construction of the remaining seven caissons. This will involve a change in formwork to initiate the next phase of creation. The manufacturing of these eight floating structures is a round-the-clock operation, ensuring that work proceeds without interruption until all pieces are completed. Each caisson is designed as a rectangular block made of reinforced concrete, featuring lightened interior cells and a continuous base slab for stability.

Features of the New Breakwater

The breakwater will consist of two segments and a toe. The first segment is composed of two caissons, stretching out to a total length of 105.30 meters. The second segment will consist of five caissons, extending 269.90 meters. Complementing this will be a toe attached to the second segment, measuring 36.25 meters in length. The meticulous design aims to create a robust barrier that provides significant protection against the relentless sea, thus enhancing the operational capabilities of the port.

Funding and Economic Impact

The estimated budget for this extensive project is a substantial €40,662,697.66, with financial backing sourced from European funds (FEDER 4). This investment not only underscores the importance of the project but also highlights the broader economic implications for the region. By upgrading contemporaneous port facilities, the initiative aims to attract more maritime traffic, drive economic growth, and generate job opportunities in the surrounding areas.

Through meticulous engineering and strategic planning, the Port Authority of Las Palmas is setting a precedent for maritime infrastructure projects. The progression in constructing the breakwater at the Port of Puerto del Rosario marks an important milestone in fostering safer and more efficient maritime operations in the Canary Islands.