On Sunday, October 22, at about 11:30 am, history was made when the largest ever barge safely transited the open span of the Demerara Harbour Bridge (DHB).
A release from BK International stated that its barge – “Motti” – and attendant tug – “Mega” – were the largest to have passed through the DHB since its commissioning in 1978.
According to the release, the “Mega” and “Motti” have an overall length of 150 metres with a beam of 24 metres and a deadweight (DW) of 8,000 tonnes. “Mega” is fitted with four main engines, while “Motti” is fitted with a bow thruster, allowing for maneuverability in narrow spaces, such as the open section of the harbour bridge.
In command of the vessel was Captain Collin Reid. River Pilot, E Drapaul; Pilot, Captain Randy Hendricks; Harbour Master, Captain Archer; and BK Marine Port Captain, H Chan, comprised the navigation crew that ensured a safe passage of the tug and barge through the open span of the harbour bridge.
On standby was assistant tug “Alpha” and the journey benefitted from a combination of good weather conditions, a slack tide, and gentle wind, the release added.
