Riga Port VTS Centre takes part in the development of a uniform system for obtaining information from ships in the Baltic Sea region
Vessel Traffic Service Center Manager Mr.Yurijs Zarins represented the Freeport of Riga Authority (FPRA) at the meeting of the Working Group on Vessel Traffic Service and Ship Reporting System Harmonization, that took place in Hamburg. FPRA says VTS operators, representing the Baltic Sea ports and other operators meet once a year, organizing working group meetings with the aim to create a common Baltic Sea framework, so that the VTS centers receive information from vessels and provide each other with it. Another purpose is to ensure the development of uniform requirements for VTS operator training, certification and improvement of professional skills in accordance with modern requirements.
International shipping requires that the ship, not only upon its arrival but also crossing the territorial waters, shall send the national competent authorities the information contained in the ship general declaration - information on the ship, cargo and stores. Such requirements are designed to ensure the safety of navigation, and special attention is given to ships carrying dangerous goods. Different systems for exchanging information related to shipping and maritime transport have been developed at international and European levels. However, they are mostly focused on national security, environment protection or load checks. As for navigational safety issues, currently, each country develops its own requirements in regards of necessary VTS information and operator activity. The Baltic Sea, where vessel traffic is very intense and ships are crossing many national territorial waters, the different requirements significantly complicate the work of sailors. Therefore the IALA (International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities) has established a working group to develop suggestions and recommendations to harmonize VTS center activities in different Baltic Sea countries and create a single system of information from vessels and its exchange between VTS operators from different countries. Unified system development is aimed at facilitating the work of seamen, enhance VTS system operator work efficiency, and improve the safety of navigation in the Baltic Sea region. Uniform requirements will eliminate the risk of errors while communicating information. It is particularly important in relation to the modern trend to reduce ship crews and thus increasing work load of the Master (officers).
Mr.Jurijs Zarins: “Although the Freeport of Riga Authority as the VTS operator is not a member of the IALA, we have to follow the processes related to the safety of navigation in the Baltic Sea. Taking part in harmonization working group meetings, we are able to provide advice that is essential to the port of Riga, and achieve our common interests in decision-making. By joining the common systems the Riga port enhances its competitiveness, attractiveness and maintains its positioning as an active and competent international port community member. I am glad that the Baltic Sea States VTS colleagues have responded to the call and the next meeting of the Working Group on vessel traffic service and ship reporting system harmonization will be held in Riga next September, and we will be able to show the port of Riga in person.”
