BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 9. Work on the third Ro-Pax type ferry, being constructed at the Baku Shipyard by an order placed by Azerbaijan Caspian Shipping Company (ASCO), a company within the Azerbaijan Transport and Communications (AZCON) Holding, is progressing according to schedule and nearing completion, the statement of ASCO says, Trend reports.
Within the scope of the project, the assembly of blocks for the main hull of the ship has been completed. Currently, pipelines are being installed, and cables for the electrical systems are being laid. Meanwhile, the installation of ventilation systems, mechanical equipment, insulation of living areas, and cabin partitioning are underway.
The project involves several innovations compared to previous similar Ro-Pax ferries. These include the installation of a three-ton crane for utility purposes, additional storage tanks for the compressed air system, and the creation of an electrical power supply system for refrigerated containers.
Additionally, a hazardous gas detection system and an extra fire extinguisher for the foam fire suppression system will be installed in the lower cargo compartment. The ferry will also feature an automatic railway track crossing system and a braking system on the cargo platform. In the main engine room, an additional cooling system, two service hatches, and two service cranes will be installed.
Furthermore, some technical solutions have been optimized compared to previous vessels. For instance, the installation of a passenger lift has been abandoned. The rear auxiliary steering system has been removed, and the power of the front auxiliary steering system has been increased from 350 kW to 545 kW.
Like the previously commissioned Azerbaijan and Zarifa Aliyeva ferries, the new ferry will have a maximum speed of 14 knots, a length of 154.5 meters, a width of 17.7 meters, and a height of 7.5 meters. In terms of cargo capacity, this ferry will also be able to carry 100 passengers, 56 tank-type wagons, or 50 freight vehicles/trucks simultaneously.
The new ferry is of particular importance for the modernization of ASCO's fleet and for enhancing the country's transit potential. Like other vessels, this Ro-Pax ferry is planned to be used for cargo and passenger transportation over the Caspian Sea, as well as in transport operations along the Middle Corridor.
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